Fluid Mixing Apparatus Such as a Ventilator

ABSTRACT

An apparatus such as a fluid mixer, suitable for use with a respirator, including a venturi nozzle for flow of a pressure-controlled fluid; an ambient fluid aperture in fluid communication with the venturi nozzle; a fluid port; a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with the fluid port; and a valve moveable relative to the venturi nozzle between a start flow position and a stop flow position; where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that fluid forced into the fluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle; and where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that fluid withdrawn from the fluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle. An attachment device, connector, and method of using an apparatus suitable for a ventilator is also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/888,564, filed May 29, 2020, and claims the benefit ofpriority to the same application (U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/888,564, filed May 29, 2020). The above-referenced application ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to a fluid mixing apparatus, and morespecifically to fluid mixing apparatus such as ventilators usable forhuman patients suffering from respiratory symptoms of a disease such asCOVID-19 or from chronic respiratory ailments, and methods of utilizingsuch ventilators.

BACKGROUND

As of the earliest filing date of this document, a pandemic of theCOVID-19 virus is sweeping Earth. COVID-19 includes a number ofsymptoms, but is primarily a respiratory disease. The majority of peopleexposed to the COVID-19 virus have mild symptoms, if any, and return tofull health quickly. However, a significant minority of people reactextremely badly to exposure to the COVID-19 virus. For those people,their lungs can become infected and inflamed, filling up the alveoliwith pus or fluid, becoming clogged, interfering with oxygen transfer tothe capillaries. The sickest patients, with the worst response to theCOVID-19 virus, may suffer from Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome(ARDS). Patients with ARDS have lungs that have been badly damaged bythe COVID-19 virus, and their alveoli become filled with fluid.Naturally-occurring surfactant in the lungs, which helps the alveoliinflate and deflate, breaks down, making the lungs stiffer. In addition,inflammation from ARDS increases the gap between the alveoli innersurface and the adjacent capillaries, reducing oxygen transfer to thecapillaries still further. Patients suffering from such extreme symptomsfrom COVID-19 infection or other causes must be intubated, and connectedto a ventilator, in order to push oxygen into their lungs and improveoxygen transfer to the blood.

As much as intubation and ventilation may be the last line of defensebetween life and death for patients suffering from severe symptoms ofCOVID-19 infection, and other patients with ARDS, ventilation isinvasive and expensive; another step between no help with breathing atall and full intubated ventilation would be beneficial. Additionally,current ventilators can exhaust droplets exhaled by the patient into thepatient's surroundings—typically a hospital room or an intensive careunit. These droplets typically carry the COVID-19 virus from infectedpatients, placing healthcare workers and other patients at risk.

Further, current ventilators rely on a continuous supply of compressedoxygen in order to function properly; operation of such currentventilators requires the oxygen supply to be continuously flowing. Thiscontinuous flow wastes oxygen and increases costs, and makes currentventilators unsuitable for remote locations, locations in less-developedcountries, or other locations that lack access or only have minimalaccess to plentiful and continuous oxygen supplies. Similarly, existingventilators rely on electronics to control the ventilator, and onelectrical power to power the electronics. This need for electricityalso makes current ventilators unsuitable for remote locations,locations in less-developed countries, or other locations that lackaccess or only have minimal access to continuous electricity.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved ventilator that is lessinvasive for the patient and presents less risk of infection for peoplenear the ventilated patient.

Additionally, ventilation used during “interhospital, intrahospital, orprehospital emergency transport”, which is known as “transportventilation”, is becoming increasingly difficult due to the high densityof patients suffering from the effects of COVID-19 and due to thecurrent devices and techniques used during transport ventilation. Forexample, currently, transport ventilation in the medical field relies ona medical professional/operator to completely detach a patient from onefluid source (for instance oxygen) to transfer to another fluid source(for example oxygen). This may occur, for example, when a patient isbeing transferred from an ambulance, while being connected to atemporary oxygen supply during transport, to the hospital, wheretransfer to a more permanent oxygen supply connection is desired. Insuch a situation, the continuous delivery from the original oxygensource, upon which a patient is reliant during transfer, is critical inmaintaining the volume in the patient's lungs to avoid collapse of thelungs. It is well understood in the medical field that it can take amatter of seconds for lungs to deflate or collapse without a continuousair/oxygen supply, which, due to the pathophysiology of the lungs, canbe severely detrimental to a patient—so much so that it can take up to16 to 20 hours for a patient's lungs to return to normal inflation withsupport of a ventilator. Therefore, the disruption in fluid flow causedduring these critical seconds of transfer from one fluid source toanother fluid source when employing conventional devices and techniquescan severely impact the health of a patient. It will be appreciated thatmaintaining a constant fluid flow, or close to constant, withoutexperiencing a significant drop in pressure for example, during transferfrom one fluid source to another fluid source is important in manyfields (for example, non-medical fields) to enable optimum performance.

Thus, there is a need for a new approach to transport ventilation in themedical field to address, at least in part, the deficiencies associatedwith conventional transport ventilation devices and methods, and thereis a need to provide solutions not hitherto contemplated nor possiblewith known constructions and techniques. In particular, it is desirableto provide a way of transferring to and/or switching from one fluidsource to another fluid source without experiencing a significantdisruption of fluid flow. This may involve maintaining the fluid flowand/or the fluid pressure during transfer and/or switching, for example,in both medical and non-medical applications.

SUMMARY

According to some embodiments, a ventilator, which may be mechanical,relies on the natural breathing of the patient to control the flow ofair into a respirator. The airflow provided is at a slightly higherpressure than ambient air pressure, and can also be oxygen enriched toaid patients with breathing difficulties. According to some embodiments,rather than relying on electronics to control the flow of air, a simpleand robust mechanical valve is used to shut off the flow of compressedair and/or oxygen into the venturi intake. The valve is activated by theslight pressure changes created when the patient is naturally breathing.The valve can be based on a simple diaphragm and flap valve system,bistable diaphragm system, or spring loaded shuttle system.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided aventilator including a venturi nozzle for flow of a pressure-controlledfluid; an ambient fluid aperture in fluid communication with the venturinozzle; a fluid port; a pressure force multiplier in fluid communicationwith the fluid port; and a valve moveable relative to the venturi nozzlebetween a start flow position and a stop flow position; where thepressure force multiplier is configured such that fluid forced into thefluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle; and wherethe pressure force multiplier is configured such that fluid withdrawnfrom the fluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided aventilator connectable to the airway of a living patient, comprising: aventuri, comprising a throat a venturi nozzle; a venturi opening in theventuri nozzle through which pressure-controlled oxygen flows outward,wherein said venturi opening opens to said throat, and wherein saidventuri opening and said throat are substantially longitudinallyaligned; an ambient air aperture in fluid communication with saidventuri nozzle and with ambient air; a fluid port in fluid communicationwith the airway of the patient; a pressure force multiplier in fluidcommunication with said fluid port, wherein said pressure forcemultiplier includes at least one opening defined therethrough; saidpressure force multiplier comprising at least one flap movable betweenan open position and a closed position relative to said at least oneopening; and a valve moveable along an axis of movement relative to saidventuri opening in said venturi nozzle between a start flow positionthat causes entrainment of the ambient air by the flow ofpressure-controlled oxygen within said throat, and a stop flow positionthat ceases entrainment of the ambient air by the flow ofpressure-controlled oxygen within said throat; wherein said pressureforce multiplier is configured wherein exhalation of the patient intosaid fluid port actuates said valve along said axis of movement relativeto said venturi nozzle to close said venturi nozzle; wherein saidpressure force multiplier is configured wherein inhalation of thepatient through said fluid port actuates said valve along said axis ofmovement relative to said venturi nozzle; and wherein said axis ofmovement of said valve is substantially longitudinally aligned with alongitudinal direction of said throat.

It may be that the inhalation of the patient through said fluid portactuates said valve relative to said venturi nozzle to open said venturinozzle.

It may be that the exhalation of the patient into said fluid port causessaid at least one flap to move to said closed position relative to saidat least one opening in said pressure force multiplier.

It may be that the inhalation of the patient through said fluid portcauses said at least one flap to move to said open position relative tosaid at least one opening in said pressure force multiplier.

According to another aspect, the present invention contemplates anapparatus suitable for a ventilator, including a venturi nozzle for flowof a pressure-controlled fluid; an ambient fluid aperture in fluidcommunication with the venturi nozzle; a fluid port; a pressure forcemultiplier in fluid communication with the fluid port; and a valvemoveable relative to the venturi nozzle between a start flow positionand a stop flow position; where the pressure force multiplier isconfigured such that fluid forced into the fluid port actuates the valverelative to the venturi nozzle; and where the pressure force multiplieris configured such that fluid withdrawn from the fluid port actuates thevalve relative to the venturi nozzle.

According to another aspect, the present invention contemplates anapparatus suitable for use with a respirator (ventilator), comprising: aventuri, comprising: a throat, a venturi nozzle, and; a venturi openingin the venturi nozzle through which pressure-controlled fluid flowsoutward, wherein said venturi opening opens to said throat, and whereinsaid venturi opening and said throat are substantially longitudinallyaligned; an ambient fluid aperture in fluid communication with saidventuri nozzle and with an ambient fluid; a fluid port; a pressure forcemultiplier in fluid communication with said fluid port; and a valvemoveable along an axis of movement relative to said venturi opening insaid venturi nozzle between a start flow position that causesentrainment of the ambient fluid by the flow of pressure-controlledfluid within said throat, and a stop flow position that ceasesentrainment of the ambient fluid by the flow of pressure-controlledfluid within said throat; wherein said pressure force multiplier isconfigured such that fluid forced into said fluid port actuates saidvalve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi nozzle toclose said venturi nozzle; wherein said pressure force multiplier isconfigured such that fluid withdrawn from said fluid port actuates saidvalve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi nozzle;wherein said axis of movement of said valve is substantiallylongitudinally aligned with a longitudinal direction of said throat; andwherein said pressure force multiplier is positioned between saidventuri nozzle and said fluid port. Thus, the present invention does notrely on the pressure-controlled fluid to be continuously flowing as iscommonly the case with known constructions. Therefore, significantsavings, both economic and environmental, can be made due to the presentinvention actuating the valve to regulate the flow of thepressure-controlled fluid which in effect makes the overall process moreefficient. The apparatus may be particularly suitable for remotelocations, locations in less-developed countries, or other locationsthat lack access or only have minimal access to plentiful and continuousfluid supplies.

The pressure force multiplier may be configured such that the (any)fluid forced into the fluid port actuates the valve relative to theventuri nozzle to a stop flow position; and the pressure forcemultiplier may be configured such that the (any) fluid withdrawn fromthe fluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle to astart flow position.

The pressure force multiplier may be configured such that the (any)fluid forced into the fluid port actuates the valve relative to theventuri nozzle to a start flow position; and the pressure forcemultiplier may be configured such that the (any) fluid withdrawn fromthe fluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle to astop flow position. This may be considered a reverse configuration, forinstance.

The pressure force multiplier may be configured such that the (any)fluid forced into the fluid port actuates the valve relative to theventuri nozzle to an active flow position between the start flowposition and stop flow position; and the pressure force multiplier maybe configured such that the (any) fluid withdrawn from the fluid portactuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle to an active flowposition between the start flow position and stop flow position. In sucha configuration, both actions of a fluid being forced into the fluidport and a fluid being withdrawn from the fluid port can actuate thevalve to an active flow position. This may be considered a pointanywhere between the stop flow and start flow positions. Hence, the flowmay be completely controlled and/or regulated from the stop flow tostart flow and all positions therebetween.

The apparatus may be defined such that a pressure-controlled fluidincludes oxygen, an ambient fluid includes ambient air, fluid forcedinto the fluid port includes air exhaled into an air port, and fluidwithdrawn from the fluid port includes air inhaled from an air port.

It may be that the pressure force multiplier is positioned between theventuri nozzle and the fluid port. Such a positioning may provideenhanced actuation of the valve.

The venturi nozzle may be positioned between the pressure forcemultiplier and the fluid port. The inventors consider such a positioningmay also provide enhanced actuation of the valve.

It may be that the venturi nozzle is positioned between the ambientfluid aperture and the fluid port. The inventors found such apositioning may also provide enhanced actuation of the valve.

The apparatus may comprise a pressure regulator for regulating the flowof a pressure-controlled fluid. It will be appreciated that at least oneof many different pressure regulators suitable for the purpose ofregulating the flow of the pressure-controlled fluid may be included.

More particularly, the apparatus may comprise a pressure regulator (forregulating the flow of the pressure-controlled fluid) comprising ahousing formed to include a bore therein; a piston moveably disposedwithin the bore, wherein the piston includes an annular lip adjacent afirst end thereof; a spring disposed within the bore, and comprising afirst end and a second end; an adjustment cap moveably disposed in thebore, where the adjustment cap is formed to include a plurality of keyslots formed therein; wherein: the first end of the spring is inphysical contact with the annular lip; and the second end of the springis in physical contact with the adjustment cap wherein: rotating theadjustment cap in a first direction causes the adjustment cap tocompress the first spring; rotating the adjustment cap in a second andopposite direction causes the adjustment cap to decompress the spring;rotating the adjustment cap in the first direction increases the outputpressure of the pressure regulator; rotating the adjustment cap in thesecond direction decreases the output pressure of the pressureregulator; the bore is defined by a cylindrical wall; the cylindricalwall is formed to include a first threading therein; the adjustment capis formed to include a second threading formed on a periphery thereof;and the second threading is configured to mesh with the first threading.Such a regulator may be particularly effective at regulating the flow ofthe pressure-controlled fluid. The inventors have found such a pressureregulator to have particularly good synergy with the apparatus definedherein. This synergy makes such a pressure regulator a specificselection generating enhanced performance of the apparatus.

The pressure force multiplier may comprise a diaphragm. The diaphragmmay be saucer-shaped to enhance its function.

It may be that the pressure force multiplier is bi-stable. This may bein an inhalation configuration and an exhalation configuration. In thisway, the pressure force multiplier expresses two stable states which isparticularly beneficial in at least some embodiments of the presentinvention.

The pressure force multiplier may be biased toward the stop flowposition. In some embodiments, it may be preferred that the pressureforce multiplier be biased toward the stop flow position, and such anarrangement makes this possible.

The pressure force multiplier may be biased toward the start flowposition. Conversely, or additionally, in some embodiments, it may bepreferred that the pressure force multiplier be biased toward the startflow position, and such an arrangement makes this possible.

The pressure force multiplier may include at least one flap.

It may be that the apparatus is solely mechanical. According to someembodiments, the apparatus being solely mechanical provides the benefitof simplicity of manufacture and operation.

The apparatus may be configured such that in the start flow position oran active flow position a mixture of pressure-controlled fluid andambient fluid is allowed to flow to the fluid port. For example, it maybe that the ambient fluid, such as ambient air, becomes entrained withthe flow of the pressure-controlled fluid, such as oxygen, driving flowand movement towards the fluid port.

The flow of the mixture may be modulated in real-time. The apparatusmay, therefore, control, change, and/or regulate the flow of the fluidmixture in an alternative or additional way to the regulation of theflow of the pressure-controlled fluid alone.

It may be that the valve includes a flange that is connected to thepressure force multiplier.

The valve may include a stem with a tapered end, where the tapered endenters a venturi opening in the venturi nozzle in the stop position tosubstantially close the venturi opening. Such an arrangement may beparticularly effective in operation of the valve in relation to thefeatures of the apparatus defined herein,

It may be that the stem is connected to the pressure force multiplier.Such a configuration may make the stem and force multiplier more robustduring operation.

The valve may comprise a switch. This may be particularly effective whena binary system is desired, or binary states are desired.

It may be that the valve includes a flap valve.

The valve may comprise a spring-loaded shuttle system.

The valve may be slidable.

The valve may be solely mechanical.

It may be that the ambient fluid aperture includes a fluid exhaust. Theambient fluid aperture may, therefore, have the dual function ofallowing ingress and egress of fluid. Exhaustion of fluid from theapparatus may reduce contamination by used fluids within the apparatus,and may simplify the apparatus by eliminating the need to store usedfluid that is not exhausted.

The valve may be configured to be actuated relative to the venturinozzle while simultaneously opening the fluid exhaust. Such a dualfunctionality may improve the operational efficiency of the apparatus.

The apparatus may further comprise at least one filter detachablyconnected to the ambient fluid aperture. The filter may operate tofilter incoming and/or outgoing fluid to/from the apparatus. Filtrationof both incoming and outgoing fluid with a single filter may improve theoperational efficiency of the apparatus.

The at least one filter may comprise pores of about 3 μm. This pore sizeis particularly effective in removing contaminants such as viruses andbacteria from fluid such as air, for example.

The apparatus may further comprise a respirator or similar apparatusthat provides for fluid communication between the ventilator and theairway of a patient. The inventors have discovered that the respiratorused in combination with the apparatus or forming part of the apparatusmay be particularly effective in treating respiratory conditions such asCOVID-19.

The respirator may be in fluid communication with the fluid port. Thefluid port may be connected directly or indirectly to the respirator,for instance.

The fluid described herein above may be a liquid. In variousapplications, liquid may pass through the apparatus. It will beappreciated that liquid such as medicine may also be administered usingthe apparatus. For instance, the apparatus may thus function as animproved nebulizer or vaporizer that can be used to administermedication in the form of a liquid mist that can be inhaled into thelungs by a patient suffering from a respiratory disease or condition. Itwill be appreciated, however, that any suitable liquid may be utilizedwith the apparatus.

The apparatus may be injection molded. The apparatus may thus be quicklyreproduced in a cost-effective manner.

It may be that the apparatus is fabricated by additive manufacturing,such as a 3D printing process. The apparatus may, therefore, bereproduced accurately and in a cost-effective manner, which makes itparticularly attractive in less-developed countries. The apparatus maybe injection molded in such a way as to include a 3D Printed Part, orparts, into the overall apparatus. The apparatus may thus be quicklyreproduced in a cost-effective manner.

The apparatus may be configured to be mobile.

The apparatus may be configured to be re-usable. Since the apparatus maybe effectively be cleaned, it may be suitable for re-use. This isparticularly beneficial in less-developed countries where availabilityof new apparatus are not readily available. The apparatus may be placedin a bag with a capsule containing a measured amount of isopropylalcohol. The bag may then be closed, the capsule squeezed to release theisopropyl alcohol, shaken, then left in the sun. After a certain amountof time, the bag may be opened, the apparatus removed, trayed, and usedby another patient.

The apparatus described herein may be for use in controlling the flow ofair and/or oxygen into a respirator (ventilator).

The apparatus described herein may be for use in controlling the flow ofscrubbed air and/or oxygen into a respirator (ventilator).

The apparatus described herein may be for use in treating a respiratorycondition.

The apparatus described herein may be for use in treating COVID-19.

In another aspect, the present invention envisages a method of using anapparatus suitable for a ventilator, the method including providing asource of pressure-controlled fluid; providing an apparatus suitable fora respirator, including: a venturi nozzle for receiving a flow of thepressure-controlled fluid; an ambient fluid aperture in fluidcommunication with the venturi nozzle; a fluid port; a pressure forcemultiplier in fluid communication with the fluid port; and a valvemoveable relative to the venturi nozzle between a start flow position,in which the pressure-controlled fluid mixes with the ambient fluid, anda stop flow position; actuating the valve relative to the venturi nozzlein response to fluid forced into the fluid port; and actuating the valverelative to the venturi nozzle in response to fluid withdrawn from thefluid port.

In another aspect, the present invention envisages a method of using anapparatus suitable for a ventilator, the method comprising: providing apressure-controlled oxygen source; providing an apparatus suitable for aventilator, comprising: a venturi, comprising a throat a venturi nozzle;a venturi opening in said venturi nozzle through whichpressure-controlled oxygen flows outward, wherein said venturi openingopens to said throat, and wherein said venturi opening and said throatare substantially longitudinally aligned; an ambient air aperture influid communication with said venturi nozzle and with ambient air; afluid port; a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with saidfluid port, wherein said pressure force multiplier includes at least oneopening defined therethrough; said pressure force multiplier comprisingat least one flap movable between an open position and a closed positionrelative to said at least one opening; and a valve moveable along anaxis of movement relative to said venturi opening in said venturi nozzlebetween a start flow position that causes entrainment of the ambient airby the flow of pressure-controlled oxygen within said throat, and a stopflow position that ceases entrainment of the ambient air by the flow ofpressure-controlled oxygen within said throat; placing said fluid portin fluid communication with an airway of the patient; in response toexhalation by the patient through said fluid port, causing said at leastone flap to move to said closed position relative to said at least oneopening, and actuating said valve along said axis of movement relativeto said venturi nozzle to close said venturi nozzle; and in response toinhalation by the patient through said fluid port, causing said at leastone flap to move to said open position relative to said at least oneopening, and actuating said valve along said axis of movement relativeto said venturi nozzle; and wherein said axis of movement of the valveis substantially longitudinally aligned with the longitudinal directionof the throat.

The apparatus in such a method may be solely mechanical.

It may be that at least a portion of said valve is movable, along saidaxis of movement, within said throat.

The method may further comprise adjusting the pressure of thepressure-controlled fluid.

It may be that the method includes that the pressure-controlled fluid ispressure-controlled oxygen, and where the fluid is air, the methodincluding: connecting the apparatus to a respirator or similar apparatus(ventilator); placing the ventilator in gaseous communication with thepatient and with the source of pressure-controlled oxygen; in responseto inhalation by the patient, starting oxygen flow into the ventilator,mixing the oxygen with ambient air to generate enriched air, anddelivering the enriched air to the patient; in response to exhalation bythe patient, stopping oxygen flow into the ventilator, and exhaustingexhalation air from the ventilator.

The enriched air may have an FiO2 of at least 26%.

It may be that the method includes that the pressure-controlled fluid ispressure-controlled filtered air, and where the fluid is air, the methodincluding: connecting the apparatus to a respirator or similar apparatus(ventilator); placing the ventilator in gaseous communication with thepatient and with the source of pressure-controlled filtered air; inresponse to inhalation by the patient, starting oxygen flow into theventilator, mixing the pressure-controlled filtered air with ambient airto generate scrubbed air, and delivering the scrubbed air to thepatient; in response to exhalation by the patient, stopping oxygen flowinto the ventilator, and exhausting exhalation air from the ventilator.

The scrubbed air may have an FiO2 of at least 26%.

The method may further include walking and/or running while utilizingthe apparatus and a respirator or similar apparatus (ventilator). Thismay involve use of the apparatus while the user is exercising, forinstance.

The method may further include initiating use of the apparatus andrespirator or similar apparatus (ventilator) to treat allergies.

The method may further include initiating use of the apparatus andrespirator or similar apparatus (ventilator) to treat ARDS.

The method may further include initiating use of the apparatus andrespirator or similar apparatus (ventilator) to treat sleep apnea.

The method may further include initiating use of the apparatus andrespirator or similar apparatus (ventilator) to treat COPD.

The method may further include initiating use of the apparatus andrespirator or similar apparatus (ventilator) to treat infection by theCOVID-19 virus.

The method may further include filtering the ambient air.

The method may further include filtering exhaled breath from thepatient.

In another aspect, the present invention encompasses a pressure forcemultiplier including a sealed end and an open end, where the sealed endis in fluid communication with a valve to define a fixed volume betweenthe sealed end and the valve, where the pressure force multiplier isconfigured such that a change in pressure in the open end causes achange in pressure in the sealed end which actuates the valve. Such aforce multiplier may be particularly effective for use with theapparatus defined herein. However, this pressure force multiplier isconsidered inventive in its own right.

The pressure force multiplier may be configured such that a negativepressure in the open end causes a reduction in pressure in the sealedend which actuates the valve.

The pressure force multiplier may be configured such that a positivepressure in the open end causes an increase in pressure in the sealedend which actuates the valve.

It may be that the actuation of the valve activates a humidifier.

The actuation of the valve may generate a change in a visual indicator.The visual indicator may be a change in color, for instance.

The change in visual indicator may represent a change of pressure in theopen end.

It may be that the change of pressure in the open end is caused byinhalation and/or exhalation of a patient. The pressure force multiplieris, thus, adaptable for many different applications, which makes it aparticularly useful accessory in many different fields of operation.

In an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an attachmentdevice comprising a body having a fluid outlet port and at least twofluid inlet ports; wherein each fluid inlet port is connectable to arespective fluid source; wherein each fluid inlet port is in fluidcommunication with the fluid outlet port; and wherein each fluid inletport comprises an attachment device mechanism for selectively startingand stopping the flow of fluid from the respective fluid source to thefluid outlet port.

An attachment device formed according to the present invention enablestransfer from one fluid source to another fluid source withoutexperiencing a significant disruption of fluid flow. The transfer maythus be a smooth transfer. The transfer may thus be a smooth transition.One fluid source can thus be switched with another fluid source withoutexperiencing a significant disruption of fluid flow or drop in fluidpressure, for example. The attachment device enables transfer and/orswitching from one fluid source to another fluid source withoutexperiencing a significant interruption of fluid flow. In this way, thefluid flow and/or fluid pressure can be maintained during such atransfer/switch/transition. The attachment device enables thetransfer/switch/transition of one fluid to another fluid to be gradualto minimize any decline in performance. This can avoid any sharp declinein fluid flow, fluid pressure, and/or overall apparatus performance.

The attachment device has particular utility in the medical field oftransport ventilation. For instance, the attachment device provides away of transferring to and/or switching from one fluid source (such asoxygen/air) to another fluid source (such as oxygen/air) withoutexperiencing a significant disruption of fluid flow. This can involvemaintaining the fluid flow and/or the fluid pressure during transferand/or switching. Thus, rather than a medical professional/operatorcompletely detaching a patient from one fluid source (for instanceoxygen) to transfer to another fluid source (for example oxygen) duringtransport ventilation when the patient could experience a decrease/lackin oxygen during such transfer, the attachment device enables acontinuous delivery of oxygen to the patient—during those criticalseconds of transfer from one oxygen source (in ambulance for example) toanother oxygen source (in hospital for example). The attachment device,thus, facilitates in maintaining the volume of the patient's lungs and,in doing so, avoids collapsing of the lungs which could cause potentialfurther injury and harm to the patient.

The attachment device addresses the deficiencies of known constructionsand methods employed in transport ventilation, for example, bysubstantially eliminating those critical seconds where a patient couldbe starved of oxygen. The attachment device involves multiple fluidinlet ports. This is at least two fluid inlet ports, but it will beunderstood it can be many more fluid inlet ports (for example, three,four, five, and so forth) according to the needs of the application andfield. The fluid inlet ports can be in fluid communication with oneanother as part of the handoff of one fluid source to the next. Avoidingthe disruption of air/oxygen flow is a significant improvement overcurrent respiratory therapy approaches because it substantiallyeliminates the harmful side effects that arise as a result of oxygenflow disruption during traditional transport ventilation methods. Forexample, the at least two fluid inlet ports of the attachment deviceallow at least two fluid lines to be concurrently connected to apatient's breathing respirator or ventilator (including a breathingmask) before one of the fluid lines is ultimately disconnected therebycompleting the transfer from one fluid line to the other fluid linewithout a substantial reduction of fluid flow and performance during thetransfer/transition/switch. This is also enabled by each fluid inletport comprising an attachment device mechanism for selectively startingand stopping the flow of fluid from the respective fluid source to thefluid outlet port of the attachment device, such that before stoppingthe fluid flow from and disconnecting a first fluid line from a firstfluid inlet port by way of the attachment device mechanism in that firstfluid inlet port, for example, the operator can start fluid flow from asecond fluid line into the attachment device by way of the attachmentdevice mechanism in that second other fluid inlet port to avoid aninterruption in fluid flow out of the attachment device via the fluidoutlet port.

It will be appreciated that maintaining a constant fluid flow, or closeto constant, without experiencing a significant drop in pressure forexample, during transfer from one fluid source to another fluid sourceis important in many fields (for example, non-medical fields) to enableoptimum performance.

The attachment device mechanism may comprise a valve having a ballmoveable between an open valve and closed valve position. The ballprovides a reliable, robust, efficient and cost-effective way to openand close a valve. It may be said that the ball is the moving part ofthe valve, or that the ball is the valve.

The valve may comprise a spring for biasing the ball to the closed valveposition. A spring is a reliable, robust, efficient and cost-effectiveway to hold the ball in the closed valve position. This may be when theattachment device is in a resting or idle state, for example. Biasingthe ball to the closed valve position may minimize any fluid frominadvertently and undesirably escaping from the attachment device duringtimes when it is not intended for fluid to leave/egress from theattachment device.

The at least two fluid inlet ports may each comprise at least twoapertures providing access to the ball. The at least two apertures maybe positioned opposite one another. They may be diametrically opposed.The at least two apertures provide access to the ball to facilitateactuation of the ball from a closed valve position to an open valveposition, for example. This is a robust and reliable manner of movingthe ball by inserting rods, for example, through the at least twoapertures. The rods may be pincer rods of a connector (connectormechanism) attached to a fluid line, for example. In this way, theattachment device mechanism may communicate with a connector mechanismof a connector, for instance.

Each fluid inlet port may comprise an arm extending from the body. Thearm may be elongate and/or cylindrical in shape. The shape of the fluidinlet port, being in the form of an arm for instance, may lend itself toavoid overcrowding of the body so that multiple fluid inlet ports can beincluded on the body. This may aid an operator or medical professional,for example, in identifying the fluid inlet ports and matching them withthe appropriate fluid source, thereby reducing errors and improvingsafety of the patient. This is particularly the case during transportventilation when time is of the essence is saving a patient's life, suchthat having at least one fluid inlet port in the form of an arm enablesthe medical professional to easily and quickly connect the oxygen lineto the attachment device by gripping the arm, for example. Of course, itwill be appreciated that the at least two fluid inlet ports may not bein the form of arms.

The arm may comprise a groove about its periphery. The groove mayfacilitate a connector (having a fluid line attached thereto) to engageand/or positively lock with the attachment device. It will be understoodthat groove may be on the at least two fluid inlet ports, regardless oftheir shape—even when they are not in the form of an arm for instance.

It may be that the attachment device mechanism comprises a medical valvehaving a valve stem and a valve seat, wherein the valve seat seals avalve orifice in a closed valve position, and the valve seat unseals thevalve orifice in an open valve position. valve stem and a valve seatprovides a secure and reliable manner in which to seal and unseal avalve orifice to optimize performance of the attachment device.

The medical valve may be moveable by a mechanical force or a magneticforce. The mechanical force may include pushing or pulling byapplication of an operator on a component of the attachment device whichin turn actuates the medical valve, for example. The magnetic force canbe provided by a magnet, and this may be a magnetic attraction ormagnetic repulsion, dependent on the arrangement of the mechanism.

The attachment device mechanism may comprise a ball proximal the body,wherein the ball may be moveable between a fluid start flow position andfluid stop flow position by mechanically or magnetically moving the balltowards the interior of the body. It may be that the ball in such anarrangement is inside or partially inside the body. The ball may bemechanically moved by another component of the attachmentdevice/mechanism or may be magnetically moved. When the ball movesinwardly towards the interior of the body, this may open the valvethereby allowing passage of the respective fluid to flow from the fluidsource to the attachment device via the fluid inlet port and exit viathe fluid outlet port.

The attachment device mechanism may comprise a spring for biasing theball to the stop flow position. A spring is a reliable, robust,efficient and cost-effective way to hold the ball in the stop flowposition. This may be when the attachment device is in a resting or idlestate, for example. Biasing the ball to the closed valve position mayminimize any fluid from inadvertently and undesirably escaping from theattachment device during times when it is not intended for fluid toleave/egress from the attachment device.

The attachment device mechanism may comprise a domed-cylinder proximalthe body, wherein the domed-cylinder may be moveable between a fluidstart flow and fluid stop flow position by mechanically or magneticallymoving the domed-cylinder towards the interior of the body. Thedome-cylinder shape is desirable because the walls of the cylinderenable precise linear movement between the fluid start flow and fluidstop flow positions.

The attachment device mechanism may comprise a spring for biasing thedomed-cylinder to the stop flow position. A spring is a reliable,robust, efficient and cost-effective way to hold the the domed-cylinderin the stop flow position. This may be when the attachment device is ina resting or idle state, for example. Biasing the domed-cylinder to theclosed valve position may minimize any fluid from inadvertently andundesirably escaping from the attachment device during times when it isnot intended for fluid to leave/egress from the attachment device.

The body may comprise internal threading at the fluid outlet port thatis connectable to a pressure regulator having external threading.Threading provides a fast and reliable method of connection, which isparticularly important during medical emergencies where time is of theessence, and to avoid confusion or delay during connection could save apatient's life.

The body may comprise external threading at the fluid outlet port thatis connectable to a pressure regulator having internal threading.Threading provides a fast and reliable method of connection, which isparticularly important during medical emergencies where time is of theessence, and to avoid confusion or delay during connection could save apatient's life.

The body may be connectable to a pressure regulator by a push-fitmechanism. A push-fit mechanism provides a fast and reliable method ofconnection, which is particularly important during medical emergencieswhere time is of the essence, and to avoid confusion or delay duringconnection could save a patient's life.

At least one of the fluid inlet ports may be detachably attached to thebody. Any of the fluid ports may thus be replaced with different sizesto match the needs of a specific size/shape of a fluid source whenneeded, for example, which is particularly desirable. The fluid inletport being detachably attached to the body allows the attachment deviceto be modular such that any part can be easily replaced with acorresponding part if damaged, for instance.

It may be that the respective fluid source is a pressure-controlledoxygen source.

It may be that the respective fluid source is a ventilator.

The attachment device may comprise a bleeder valve.

The bleeder valve may comprise a fluid pressure indicator. The bleedervalve and fluid pressure indicator aid an operator in ensuring that thecorrect/minimum fluid pressure/flow is present before disengaging afluid source from a fluid inlet port, thereby maintaining the fluidpressure/flow of the fluid entering and exiting the attachment devicevia the fluid inlet ports and fluid outlet port, respectively.

The attachment device defined herein may be for use in a medicalapplication.

The attachment device defined herein may be for use in at least one ofspooling up a turbocharger, changing cam timing in an engine, operatingas an injector or a valve, generating downforce in a car chassis,dispersion of carbon dioxide, controlling humidity by atomizing water,and nutrient distribution.

In another aspect, the present invention contemplates a connector forconnecting a fluid source and an attachment device, the connector beingattachable to a fluid source and an attachment device, and the connectercomprising a housing and a connector mechanism for selectively startingand stopping the flow of fluid from the fluid source to the attachmentdevice.

A connector formed according to the present invention enables transferfrom one fluid source to another fluid source without experiencing asignificant disruption of fluid flow. The transfer may thus be a smoothtransfer. The transfer may thus be a smooth transition. One fluid sourcecan thus be switched with another fluid source without experiencing asignificant disruption of fluid flow or drop in fluid pressure, forexample. The connector enables transfer and/or switching from one fluidsource to another fluid source without experiencing a significantinterruption of fluid flow. In this way, the fluid flow and/or fluidpressure can be maintained during such a transfer/switch/transition. Theconnector enables the transfer/switch/transition of one fluid to anotherfluid to be gradual to minimize any decline in performance. This canavoid any sharp decline in fluid flow, fluid pressure, and/or overallapparatus performance.

The connector has particular utility in the medical field of transportventilation. For instance, the connector provides a way of transferringto and/or switching from one fluid source (such as oxygen/air) toanother fluid source (such as oxygen/air) without experiencing asignificant disruption of fluid flow. This can involve maintaining thefluid flow and/or the fluid pressure during transfer and/or switching.Thus, rather than a medical professional/operator completely detaching apatient from one fluid source (for instance oxygen) to transfer toanother fluid source (for example oxygen) during transport ventilationwhen the patient could experience a decrease/lack in oxygen during suchtransfer, the connector enables a continuous delivery of oxygen to thepatient—during those critical seconds of transfer from one oxygen source(in ambulance for example) to another oxygen source (in hospital forexample). The connector, thus, facilitates in maintaining the volume ofthe patient's lungs and, in doing so, avoids collapsing of the lungswhich could cause potential further injury and harm to the patient.

The connector addresses the deficiencies of known constructions andmethods employed in transport ventilation, for example, by substantiallyeliminating those critical seconds where a patient could be starved ofoxygen. A connector can be used for each of the multiple fluid inletports of an attachment device, for example. Avoiding the disruption ofair/oxygen flow is a significant improvement over current respiratorytherapy approaches because it substantially eliminates the harmful sideeffects that arise as a result of oxygen flow disruption duringtraditional transport ventilation methods. For example, at least twoconnectors can be connected to at least two fluid inlet ports of theattachment device thereby allowing at least two fluid lines to beconcurrently connected to a patient's breathing respirator or ventilator(including a breathing mask) before one of the fluid lines is ultimatelydisconnected thereby completing the transfer from one fluid line to theother fluid line without a substantial reduction of fluid flow andperformance during the transfer/transition/switch. This is also enabledby the connector mechanism for selectively starting and stopping theflow of fluid from the fluid source to the attachment device, such thatbefore stopping the fluid flow from and disconnecting a first fluid lineby way of a first connector mechanism, for example, the operator canstart fluid flow from a second fluid line into the attachment device byway of a second connector mechanism to avoid an interruption in fluidflow out of the attachment device via the fluid outlet port.

It will be appreciated that maintaining a constant fluid flow, or closeto constant, without experiencing a significant drop in pressure forexample, during transfer from one fluid source to another fluid sourceis important in many fields (for example, non-medical fields) to enableoptimum performance.

The connector allows fluid communication between a fluid source and anattachment device, but also allows the fluid flow to be selectivelystarted and stopped based on the operator's needs and circumstancesduring use thereof.

The connecter mechanism may comprise at least two couplers each having awedge member. The wedge members are particularly suitable for moving aball in a valve, for example. This can be the ball in the valve of anattachment device mechanism, for instance. The shape of the wedge makesit particularly suited for this purpose since sliding the wedge beneatha ball or dome will smoothly move the ball and dome in a constant andpredictable manner. Thus, the valve in an attachment device mechanism,for example, can be opened and closed in a predictable and measured way.

The at least two couplers may be pincer rods each having the wedgemember disposed at one end thereof. The pincer rods may be elongate inform and may be manufactured from a non-flexible material.

The at least two couplers may be hingeably disposed in the housing.Being hingeably disposed allows the at least two couplers to be pivotedabout a point to effect movement in a predetermined path. This path islikely a curved path between a start and finish position, which cancorrelate with an open valve and closed valve position, or a start flowand stop flow position, for example.

The at least two couplers may be hingeably disposed by a pin in thehousing. The pin provides an efficient and reliable manner of pivotingthe at least two couplers about their respective hinge points.

The connecter mechanism may comprise ball bearings to generate apositive lock engagement. The ball bearings provide a tight seal andlock to inhibit any fluid from undesirably escaping from the connectorabout its periphery during use. That is, it is desirable that the fluidpassing through the connector should exit the connector in a controlledmanner due to the function of the connector mechanism.

The connecter mechanism may comprise a magnet. The magnet may bepositioned centrally with respect to the connector. The magnet may bepositioned concentrically with respect to the connector. This enhancesthe performance of the connector mechanism because it is able to apply amagnetic force equally in all directions—that is the magnetic force isuniform thereby providing a reliable and predictable movement ofcomponent (such as a ball or dome-cylinder of an attachment devicemechanism) to open and close a valve in reliable and predictable manner,for instance.

The connector may comprise a coupling magnet for connecting a fluidsource and an attachment device. The coupling magnet may be positionedat one end of the connector, for instance, for optimum performance andto effect a strong coupling between the connector and another device,such as an attachment device, for example.

The connector may comprise a bleeder valve.

The bleeder valve may comprise a fluid pressure indicator. The bleedervalve and fluid pressure indicator aid an operator in ensuring that thecorrect/minimum fluid pressure/flow is present before disengaging afluid source from a fluid inlet port of an attachment device, therebymaintaining the fluid pressure/flow of the fluid entering and exitingthe connector and thus the attachment device via the fluid inlet portsand fluid outlet port, respectively.

In another aspect, the present invention comprehends an assemblycomprising an attachment device, a connector for connecting a fluidsource to the attachment device, and a pressure regulator for regulatingfluid pressure and fluid flow speed; wherein the attachment devicecomprising a body having a fluid outlet port and at least two fluidinlet ports; wherein each fluid inlet port is connectable to arespective fluid source; wherein each fluid inlet port is in fluidcommunication with the fluid outlet port; and wherein each fluid inletport comprises an attachment device mechanism for selectively startingand stopping the flow of fluid from the respective fluid source to thefluid outlet port; and wherein the connector being attachable to a fluidsource and the attachment device, the connecter comprising a housing anda connector mechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow offluid from the fluid source to the attachment device.

An assembly formed according to the present invention enables transferfrom one fluid source to another fluid source without experiencing asignificant disruption of fluid flow. The transfer may thus be a smoothtransfer. The transfer may thus be a smooth transition. One fluid sourcecan thus be switched with another fluid source without experiencing asignificant disruption of fluid flow or drop in fluid pressure, forexample. The assembly enables transfer and/or switching from one fluidsource to another fluid source without experiencing a significantinterruption of fluid flow. In this way, the fluid flow and/or fluidpressure can be maintained during such a transfer/switch/transition. Theassembly enables the transfer/switch/transition of one fluid to anotherfluid to be gradual to minimize any decline in performance. This canavoid any sharp decline in fluid flow, fluid pressure, and/or overallapparatus performance.

The assembly has particular utility in the medical field of transportventilation. For instance, the assembly provides a way of transferringto and/or switching from one fluid source (such as oxygen/air) toanother fluid source (such as oxygen/air) without experiencing asignificant disruption of fluid flow. This can involve maintaining thefluid flow and/or the fluid pressure during transfer and/or switching.Thus, rather than a medical professional/operator completely detaching apatient from one fluid source (for instance oxygen) to transfer toanother fluid source (for example oxygen) during transport ventilationwhen the patient could experience a decrease/lack in oxygen during suchtransfer, the attachment device enables a continuous delivery of oxygento the patient via the connector, attachment device, and pressureregulator (which are all in fluid communication with one another duringthe start flow/open valve positions)—during those critical seconds oftransfer from one oxygen source (in ambulance for example) to anotheroxygen source (in hospital for example). The assembly, thus, facilitatesin maintaining the volume of the patient's lungs and, in doing so,avoids collapsing of the lungs which could cause potential furtherinjury and harm to the patient.

The assembly addresses the deficiencies of known constructions andmethods employed in transport ventilation, for example, by substantiallyeliminating those critical seconds where a patient could be starved ofoxygen. The assembly involves multiple fluid inlet ports. This is atleast two fluid inlet ports, but it will be understood it can be manymore fluid inlet ports (for example, three, four, five, and so forth)according to the needs of the application and field. Avoiding thedisruption of air/oxygen flow is a significant improvement over currentrespiratory therapy approaches because it substantially eliminates theharmful side effects that arise as a result of oxygen flow disruptionduring traditional transport ventilation methods. For example, the atleast two fluid inlet ports of the attachment device of the assemblyallow at least two fluid lines to be concurrently connected to apatient's breathing respirator or ventilator (including a breathingmask) before one of the fluid lines is ultimately disconnected therebycompleting the transfer from one fluid line to the other fluid linewithout a substantial reduction of fluid flow and performance during thetransfer/transition/switch. This is also enabled by each fluid inletport comprising an attachment device mechanism for selectively startingand stopping the flow of fluid from the respective fluid source to thefluid outlet port of the attachment device of the assembly, such thatbefore stopping the fluid flow from and disconnecting a first fluid linefrom a first fluid inlet port by way of the attachment device mechanismin that first fluid inlet port, for example, the operator can startfluid flow from a second fluid line into the attachment device by way ofthe attachment device mechanism in that second other fluid inlet port toavoid an interruption in fluid flow out of the attachment device via thefluid outlet port.

It will be appreciated that maintaining a constant fluid flow, or closeto constant, without experiencing a significant drop in pressure forexample, during transfer from one fluid source to another fluid sourceis important in many fields (for example, non-medical fields) to enableoptimum performance.

The pressure regulator may be connectable to the fluid outlet port. Theconnection can be provided by any suitable manner that provide a fast,secure and sealed connection.

The pressure regulator may comprise external threading that isconnectable to internal threading of the fluid outlet port. Threadingprovides a fast and reliable method of connection, which is particularlyimportant during medical emergencies where time is of the essence, andto avoid confusion or delay during connection could save a patient'slife.

The pressure regulator may comprise internal threading that isconnectable to external threading of the fluid outlet port. Threadingprovides a fast and reliable method of connection, which is particularlyimportant during medical emergencies where time is of the essence, andto avoid confusion or delay during connection could save a patient'slife.

The connector may be connected to the attachment device by at least oneselected from the group comprising a push-fit mechanism, bayonetfastening mechanism, and a twist-click seal.

The assembly may comprise a pressure regulator that comprises: a housingformed to include a bore therein; a piston moveably disposed within saidbore, wherein said piston comprises an annular lip adjacent a first endthereof; a pressure regulator spring disposed within said bore, andcomprising a first end and a second end; and an adjustment cap moveablydisposed in said bore, wherein said adjustment cap is formed to includea plurality of key slots formed therein; wherein: said first end of saidpressure regulator spring is in physical contact with said annular lip;and said second end of said pressure regulator spring is in physicalcontact with said adjustment cap wherein: rotating said adjustment capin a first direction causes said adjustment cap to compress saidpressure regulator spring; rotating said adjustment cap in a second andopposite direction causes said adjustment cap to decompress saidpressure regulator spring; rotating said adjustment cap in said firstdirection increases the output pressure of the pressure regulator;rotating said adjustment cap in said second direction decreases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator; said bore is defined by acylindrical wall; said cylindrical wall is formed to include a firstthreading therein; said adjustment cap is formed to include a secondthreading formed on a periphery thereof; and said second threading isconfigured to mesh with said first threading. Such a pressure regulatorallows the flow speed and pressure of the fluid to be accuratelyregulated.

The assembly may further comprise a ventilator connectable to the airwayof a living patient, the ventilator comprising: a venturi, comprising athroat a venturi nozzle a venturi opening in the venturi nozzle throughwhich pressure-controlled oxygen flows outward, wherein said venturiopening opens to said throat, and wherein said venturi opening and saidthroat are substantially longitudinally aligned; an ambient air aperturein fluid communication with said venturi nozzle and with ambient air; afluid port in fluid communication with the airway of the patient; apressure force multiplier in fluid communication with said fluid port,wherein said pressure force multiplier includes at least one openingdefined therethrough; said pressure force multiplier comprising at leastone flap movable between an open position and a closed position relativeto said at least one opening; and a valve moveable along an axis ofmovement relative to said venturi opening in said venturi nozzle betweena start flow position that causes entrainment of the ambient air by theflow of pressure-controlled oxygen within said throat, and a stop flowposition that ceases entrainment of the ambient air by the flow ofpressure-controlled oxygen within said throat; wherein said pressureforce multiplier is configured wherein exhalation of the patient intosaid fluid port actuates said valve along said axis of movement relativeto said venturi nozzle to close said venturi nozzle; wherein saidpressure force multiplier is configured wherein inhalation of thepatient through said fluid port actuates said valve along said axis ofmovement relative to said venturi nozzle; and wherein said axis ofmovement of said valve is substantially longitudinally aligned with alongitudinal direction of said throat.

Thus, the assembly does not rely on the pressure-controlled fluid to becontinuously flowing as is commonly the case with known constructions.Therefore, significant savings, both economic and environmental, can bemade due to the present invention actuating the valve to regulate theflow of the pressure-controlled fluid which in effect makes the overallprocess more efficient. The assembly may be particularly suitable forremote locations, locations in less-developed countries, or otherlocations that lack access or only have minimal access to plentiful andcontinuous fluid supplies.

The assembly may comprise any pressure regulator defined herein. Thismay be in association with the ventilator described above, for instance.

The pressure regulator may be connectable to the ventilator.

The assembly may further comprising an apparatus suitable for use with arespirator, comprising: a venturi, comprising: a throat, a venturinozzle, and; a venturi opening in the venturi nozzle through whichpressure-controlled fluid flows outward, wherein said venturi openingopens to said throat, and wherein said venturi opening and said throatare substantially longitudinally aligned; an ambient fluid aperture influid communication with said venturi nozzle and with an ambient fluid;a fluid port; a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication withsaid fluid port; and a valve moveable along an axis of movement relativeto said venturi opening in said venturi nozzle between a start flowposition that causes entrainment of the ambient fluid by the flow ofpressure-controlled fluid within said throat, and a stop flow positionthat ceases entrainment of the ambient fluid by the flow ofpressure-controlled fluid within said throat; wherein said pressureforce multiplier is configured such that fluid forced into said fluidport actuates said valve along said axis of movement relative to saidventuri nozzle to close said venturi nozzle; wherein said pressure forcemultiplier is configured such that fluid withdrawn from said fluid portactuates said valve along said axis of movement relative to said venturinozzle; wherein said axis of movement of said valve is substantiallylongitudinally aligned with a longitudinal direction of said throat; andwherein said pressure force multiplier is positioned between saidventuri nozzle and said fluid port.

Thus, the assembly does not rely on the pressure-controlled fluid to becontinuously flowing as is commonly the case with known constructions.Therefore, significant savings, both economic and environmental, can bemade due to the present invention actuating the valve to regulate theflow of the pressure-controlled fluid which in effect makes the overallprocess more efficient. The assembly may be particularly suitable forremote locations, locations in less-developed countries, or otherlocations that lack access or only have minimal access to plentiful andcontinuous fluid supplies.

The assembly may comprise any pressure regulator defined herein. Thismay be in association with the apparatus described above, for instance.

The pressure regulator may be connectable to the apparatus.

The assembly may further comprise an oxygen-filled reservoir. Theoxygen-filled reservoir is particularly beneficial during transportventilation, for instance, during which time a patient in an ambulancemay need a higher dose of oxygen or a constant supply of 100% oxygen.The oxygen-filled reservoir facilitates this need. The oxygen-filledreservoir may also be continually replenished by an oxygen source toensure a constant supply can reach the patient from the oxygen-filledreservoir. Hence, the oxygen-filled reservoir may be connected to anoxygen source. The oxygen-filled reservoir may be a tank, a tidal volumebag, an entrainment bag, for instance. The ventilator of the assemblycan entrain the oxygen from the oxygen-filler reservoir so that thepatient is breathing 100% oxygen.

The assembly may comprise a high flow nasal canula for optimumperformance and delivery of oxygen to a patient, for example. Such ahigh flow nasal canula may enable an order of magnitude less of oxygenuse,

The oxygen-filled reservoir may be connected to the ventilator.

The ventilator may comprise a one-way exhaust valve and a one-wayreservoir valve, and wherein the one-way reservoir valve may fluidlyconnect the oxygen-filled reservoir to the ventilator. This prevents anyexhalation air from a patient, for example, from reaching theoxygen-filled reservoir.

The one-way exhaust valve and the one-way reservoir valve may bepositioned at the ambient air aperture of the ventilator. This preventsany exhalation air from a patient, for example, from reaching theoxygen-filled reservoir.

The attachment device mechanism and the connector mechanism may beinterconnected for selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluidfrom the fluid source to the attachment device. In this way, theattachment device mechanism and the connector mechanism can work incombination for selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid fromthe fluid source to the attachment device within the assembly. Thisarrangement can provide enhanced performance.

In another aspect, the present invention envisages a method of switchingone fluid source with another fluid source and maintaining continuousfluid flow to a respirator or ventilator, comprising the steps of:providing a respirator or ventilator; providing one fluid source;attaching said one fluid source to one connector, said one connectercomprising one housing and one connector mechanism for selectivelystarting and stopping the flow of fluid; providing an attachment devicecomprising a body having a fluid outlet port and at least two fluidinlet ports; wherein each fluid inlet port is connectable to arespective fluid source; wherein each fluid inlet port is in fluidcommunication with the fluid outlet port; and wherein each fluid inletport comprises an attachment device mechanism for selectively startingand stopping the flow of fluid; providing a pressure regulator forregulating fluid pressure and fluid flow speed; connecting the fluidoutlet port of the attachment device to the pressure regulator;connecting the pressure regulator to the respirator or ventilator;connecting said one connector to one fluid inlet port of the attachmentdevice; selectively starting flow of fluid from said one fluid source tothe respirator or ventilator using said one connector mechanism and oneattachment device mechanism; providing another fluid source; attachingsaid another fluid source to another connector, said another connectercomprising another housing and another connector mechanism forselectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid; connecting saidanother connector to another fluid inlet port of the attachment device;selectively starting flow of fluid from said another fluid source to therespirator or ventilator using said another connector mechanism andanother attachment device mechanism; selectively stopping flow of fluidfrom said one fluid source to the respirator or ventilator using saidone connector mechanism and said one attachment device mechanism; anddisconnecting said one connector from said one fluid inlet port of theattachment device.

It may be that at least one of said attachment device, said oneconnector and said another connector comprises a bleeder valve having afluid pressure indicator, and the method may further comprise the stepof checking the fluid pressure indicator before the steps of selectivelystopping flow of fluid from said one fluid source and disconnecting saidone connector from said one fluid inlet port of the attachment device.

The step of providing a pressure regulator for regulating fluid pressureand fluid flow speed may comprise providing a pressure regulator thatcomprises: a housing formed to include a bore therein; a piston moveablydisposed within said bore, wherein said piston comprises an annular lipadjacent a first end thereof; a pressure regulator spring disposedwithin said bore, and comprising a first end and a second end; and anadjustment cap moveably disposed in said bore, wherein said adjustmentcap is formed to include a plurality of key slots formed therein;wherein: said first end of said pressure regulator spring is in physicalcontact with said annular lip; and said second end of said pressureregulator spring is in physical contact with said adjustment capwherein: rotating said adjustment cap in a first direction causes saidadjustment cap to compress said pressure regulator spring; rotating saidadjustment cap in a second and opposite direction causes said adjustmentcap to decompress said pressure regulator spring; rotating saidadjustment cap in said first direction increases the output pressure ofthe pressure regulator; rotating said adjustment cap in said seconddirection decreases the output pressure of the pressure regulator; saidbore is defined by a cylindrical wall; said cylindrical wall is formedto include a first threading therein; said adjustment cap is formed toinclude a second threading formed on a periphery thereof; and saidsecond threading is configured to mesh with said first threading.

The step of providing a ventilator may comprise providing a ventilatorthat is connectable to the airway of a living patient, the ventilatorcomprising: a venturi, comprising a throat a venturi nozzle; a venturiopening in the venturi nozzle through which pressure-controlled oxygenflows outward, wherein said venturi opening opens to said throat, andwherein said venturi opening and said throat are substantiallylongitudinally aligned; an ambient air aperture in fluid communicationwith said venturi nozzle and with ambient air; a fluid port in fluidcommunication with the airway of the patient; a pressure forcemultiplier in fluid communication with said fluid port, wherein saidpressure force multiplier includes at least one opening definedtherethrough; said pressure force multiplier comprising at least oneflap movable between an open position and a closed position relative tosaid at least one opening; and a valve moveable along an axis ofmovement relative to said venturi opening in said venturi nozzle betweena start flow position that causes entrainment of the ambient air by theflow of pressure-controlled oxygen within said throat, and a stop flowposition that ceases entrainment of the ambient air by the flow ofpressure-controlled oxygen within said throat; wherein said pressureforce multiplier is configured wherein exhalation of the patient intosaid fluid port actuates said valve along said axis of movement relativeto said venturi nozzle to close said venturi nozzle; wherein saidpressure force multiplier is configured wherein inhalation of thepatient through said fluid port actuates said valve along said axis ofmovement relative to said venturi nozzle; and wherein said axis ofmovement of said valve is substantially longitudinally aligned with alongitudinal direction of said throat.

The method may be for use in transport ventilation.

The characteristics and utilities of the present invention described inthis summary and the detailed description below are not all inclusive.Many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art given the following description. There hasthus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of theinvention in order that the detailed description thereof that followsmay be better understood, and in order that the present contribution tothe art may be better appreciated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective cutaway view of a ventilator in an inhalationconfiguration.

FIG. 2 is a side cutaway view of the ventilator of FIG. 1 in theinhalation configuration.

FIG. 2A is a detail perspective cutaway of the ventilator of FIG. 1 inthe inhalation configuration, showing a diaphragm in the inhalationconfiguration.

FIG. 3 is a perspective cutaway view of the ventilator in an exhalationconfiguration.

FIG. 3A is a detail perspective cutaway of the ventilator of FIG. 3 inthe exhalation configuration, showing exhalation windows.

FIG. 3B is a detail perspective cutaway of the ventilator of FIG. 3 inthe exhalation configuration, showing flaps.

FIG. 4 is a side cutaway view of the ventilator of FIG. 3 in theexhalation configuration.

FIG. 5 is a perspective cutaway view of another embodiment of theventilator.

FIG. 6 is a side cutaway view of the ventilator of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a detail perspective cutaway view of a valve of the ventilatorof FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is detail side cutaway view of a valve of the ventilator of FIG.5.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a secondary regulator500.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the secondary regulator 500.

FIG. 11 is a cross-section view of another embodiment of a secondaryregulator 700.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the secondary regulator 700.

FIG. 13 is a top view of an adjustment cap 750 disposed within thesecondary regulator 700.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the adjustment cap 750.

FIG. 15A is an upper perspective view of an attachment device formedaccording to an embodiment of the invention in which there are two fluidinlet ports.

FIG. 15B is a lower perspective view of the attachment device of FIG.15A.

FIG. 15C is a plan view of the attachment device of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15D is a bottom view of the attachment device of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15E is a side view of the attachment device of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15F is a side cutaway view of the attachment device of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15G is an upper perspective cutaway view of the attachment deviceof FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16A is an upper perspective view of an attachment device formedaccording to another embodiment of the invention in which there arethree fluid inlet ports.

FIG. 16B is a lower perspective view of the attachment device of FIG.16A.

FIG. 16C is a plan view of the attachment device of FIG. 16A.

FIG. 16D is a bottom view of the attachment device of FIG. 16A.

FIG. 16E is a side view of the attachment device of FIG. 16A.

FIG. 16F is a side cutaway view of the attachment device of FIG. 16A.

FIG. 16G is an upper perspective cutaway view of the attachment deviceof FIG. 16A.

FIG. 17A is an upper perspective view of an attachment device formedaccording to another embodiment of the invention in which there are fourfluid inlet ports.

FIG. 17B is a lower perspective view of the attachment device of FIG.17A.

FIG. 17C is a plan view of the attachment device of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 17D is a bottom view of the attachment device of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 17E is a side view of the attachment device of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 17F is a side cutaway view of the attachment device of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 17G is an upper perspective cutaway view of the attachment deviceof FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18A is an upper perspective view of a connector formed according toan embodiment of the invention in which there are pincer rods.

FIG. 18B is a side cutaway view of the connector of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19A is a perspective cutaway view of an assembly formed accordingto an embodiment of the invention in an intermediate position.

FIG. 19B is a side cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 19A in theintermediate position.

FIG. 19C is a perspective cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 19A in anengaged position.

FIG. 19D is a side cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 19A in anengaged position.

FIG. 20A is a perspective cutaway view of an attachment device formedaccording to alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20B is a side cutaway view of the attachment device of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 21A is a perspective cutaway view of an attachment device formedaccording to a further alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21B is a side cutaway view of the attachment device of FIG. 21A.

FIG. 22A is a perspective cutaway view of an attachment device formedaccording to a further alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22B is a side cutaway view of the attachment device of FIG. 22A.

FIG. 23A is a perspective cutaway view of an attachment device formedaccording to a further alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23B is a side cutaway view of the attachment device of FIG. 23A.

FIG. 24A is a perspective cutaway view of a connector formed accordingto an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24B is a side cutaway view of the connector of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 25A is a perspective cutaway view of an assembly formed accordingto an embodiment of the invention in an engaged position.

FIG. 25B is a side cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 25A in theengaged position.

FIG. 26A is a perspective cutaway view of an assembly formed accordingto another embodiment of the invention in an engaged position.

FIG. 26B is a side cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 26A in theengaged position.

FIG. 27A is a perspective cutaway view of an assembly formed accordingto an embodiment of the invention comprising a first connector and firstfluid source in an engaged position.

FIG. 27B is a side cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 27A in theengaged position.

FIG. 27C is a perspective cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 27Afurther comprising a second connector and second fluid source in anengaged position.

FIG. 27D is a side cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 27C in theengaged position.

FIG. 27E is a perspective cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 27Cfollowing disconnection of the first connector and first fluid source.

FIG. 27F is a side cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 27E in theengaged position.

FIG. 28 is a flow diagram of the method according to the invention.

FIG. 29A is an upper perspective view of a reservoir bag apparatusformed according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29B is a lower perspective view of the reservoir bag and valveapparatus of FIG. 29A.

FIG. 29C is a plan view of the reservoir bag and valve apparatus of FIG.29A.

FIG. 29D is a bottom view of the reservoir bag and valve apparatus ofFIG. 29A.

FIG. 29E is a side view of the reservoir bag and valve apparatus of FIG.29A.

FIG. 29F is a side cutaway view of the reservoir bag and valve apparatusof FIG. 29A.

FIG. 29G is an upper perspective cutaway view of the reservoir bag andvalve apparatus of FIG. 29A.

FIG. 30A is a perspective cutaway view of an assembly formed accordingto an embodiment of the invention comprising a reservoir bag and valveapparatus in an engaged position.

FIG. 30B is a side cutaway view of the assembly of FIG. 30A in theengaged position.

The use of the same reference symbols in different figures indicatessimilar or identical items.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1-2, one embodiment of a fluid mixer 2 is shown. Thefluid mixer 2 also may be referred to as a fluid mixing apparatus 2 orapparatus 2. The fluid mixer 2 may be used in a variety of applications.For example, the fluid mixer 2 may find use in medical applications,automotive applications, racing applications, and other applications. Asseen in FIGS. 1-2, the fluid mixer 2 is a ventilator 2. The term“ventilator,” as used in this document, encompasses any and all medicalapplications in which the ventilator 2 may be used, such as but notlimited to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, andbilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines.

Returning to FIGS. 1-2, an exemplary ventilator 2 is shown in aninhalation configuration, in which a patient is inhaling gas through theventilator 2. Advantageously, the ventilator 2 is solely mechanical. Asused in this document, the term “solely mechanical” is defined to mean amechanism operable based on gas pressure changes controlled by apatient's breath, without electricity or electronics. According to otherembodiments, the ventilator 2 may be controlled, powered, or otherwiseoperated in whole or in part using electricity and/or electronics. Theventilator 2 includes an ambient fluid aperture 4, which may begenerally bell-shaped, or which may have any other suitable shape. Theopening of the ambient fluid aperture 4 may have any suitable shape,such as but not limited to circular, oval, rectilinear, or polygonal,and may be bilaterally and/or radially symmetrical, or asymmetrical. Theambient fluid aperture 4 may be located at one end of the ventilator 2.The ventilator 2 also includes a fluid inlet 6, located in proximity tothe ambient fluid aperture 4. The fluid inlet 6 may be connected to asource of pressure-controlled fluid, such as oxygen. As seen in FIG. 1,the ambient fluid aperture 4 and the fluid inlet 6 may be arrangedgenerally perpendicular to one another; however, the ambient fluidaperture 4 and the fluid inlet 6 may be arranged relative to one anotherin any other suitable manner. The fluid inlet 6 may include threads 8defined on an outer diameter thereof, to facilitate the connection ofoxygen or other pressure-controlled fluid to the ventilator 2.Advantageously, the pressure entering the fluid inlet 6 is slightlyabove ambient. The pressure at the fluid inlet 6 may be adjusted asdescribed in greater detail below. As utilized in the treatment ofpatients, the fluid inlet 6 may be an oxygen inlet, through which oxygenenters the ventilator 2.

Air from the ambient fluid aperture 4 and oxygen from the fluid inlet 6are mixed in a venturi 10. According to some embodiments, passages 12are defined in the ventilator 2 radially outside the ambient fluidaperture 4, and oxygen from the fluid inlet 6 travels from the fluidinlet 6 through the passages 12 to a venturi nozzle 14 and out theventuri opening 16 in the venturi nozzle 14. The specific path,cross-section and other details of the passages 12 are not critical tothe invention; rather, as long as a sufficient amount of oxygen isdelivered to the venturi opening 16, the passages 12 may be configuredin any manner. An air passage 18 allows air to flow from the ambientfluid aperture 4 to the venturi nozzle 14. As oxygen exits the venturiopening 16 of the venturi nozzle 14, that oxygen flow entrains air fromthe throat 19 of the venturi 10 and mixes with that entrained air, whichis oxygen-enriched compared to ambient air. Above the venturi nozzle 14,a central passage 17 extends upwards, allowing oxygen-enriched air totravel to the patient during inhalation, and allowing exhalation air totravel outward from the patient during exhalation. As is well understoodin the art, a venturi is typically a short tubular section with atapering constriction (throat 19) in the middle that causes an increasein the velocity of flow of a fluid passing therethrough. As can be seenfrom FIGS. 1-2, the venturi opening 16 in the venturi nozzle 14, throughwhich pressure-controlled oxygen (or other pressure-controlled fluid forexample) flows outward, opens to said throat 19, and wherein saidventuri opening 16 and said throat 19 are substantially longitudinallyaligned.

A valve 20 is positioned above the venturi nozzle 14. As used in thisdocument, words of orientation such as “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”and the like refer to the orientation of and relative location of partsshown in the Figures relative to the page for ease of description; theventilator 2 can be used in any orientation, and such words oforientation do not limit use of the ventilator 2. The valve 20 includesa stem 22, which may include a tapered end 24 according to someembodiments. The tapered end 24 may be tapered such that a portion ofthe tapered end 24 has a diameter less than the diameter of the venturiopening 16 and can enter the venturi nozzle 14 through the venturiopening 16. In the open, inhalation position shown in FIG. 1 the taperedend 24 is spaced apart from the venturi opening 16 such that oxygen canflow out of the venturi opening 16 and entrain ambient air from the airpassage 18 in the throat 19 of the venturi 10. According to otherembodiments, the stem 22 need not include a tapered end 24, and mayinstead include an end that grows wider in diameter closer to theventuri nozzle 14, such that the wider end is capable of blocking theventuri opening 16 in a closed position without substantially enteringthe venturi opening 16. A stem seat 21 may extend laterally toward thestem 22, and may include a stem aperture 23 configured to receive andguide the stem 22 in its longitudinal motion, while substantiallyrestraining the stem 22 against lateral motion. The stem aperture 23 mayhave a shape similar to and slightly larger than the stem 22. Forexample, where the stem 22 is generally cylindrical, the outer diameterof the stem 22 may be slightly smaller than the diameter of the stemaperture 23, such that the stem aperture 23 allows the stem 22 to sliderelative to the stem aperture 23 while the stem aperture 23 also limitsthe lateral motion of the stem 22. The valve 20 may be free-floating, asseen in FIGS. 1-2. Optionally, the valve 20 may be biased toward theinhalation configuration shown in FIGS. 1-2, such as by a spring (notshown) or other structure or mechanism. Alternately, the valve 20 may bebiased toward the exhalation configuration, such as by a spring (notshown) or other structure or mechanism.

The stem 22 extends from the tapered end 24 to a vent ring 26. The ventring 26 may be generally cylindrical in shape, including a generallycircular bottom 28 and a curved body 30. One or more windows 32 may bedefined through the curved body 30. The vent ring 26 may be received byan aperture 34 in a vent ring seat 36. The aperture 34 may have a shapesimilar to and slightly larger than the vent ring 26. For example, wherethe vent ring 26 is generally cylindrical, the outer diameter of thevent ring 26 may be slightly smaller than the diameter of the aperture34, such that the aperture 34 of the vent ring seat 36 allows the ventring 26 to slide relative to the aperture 34 while the aperture 34 alsolimits the lateral motion of the vent ring 26. At least one flange 38may extend radially outward from the vent ring 26. The flange 38 mayextend outward from an upper edge of the vent ring 26, or from any othersuitable portion of the vent ring 26.

The flange 38 may be connected to a pressure force multiplier 40 withina chamber 42; advantageously, the flange 38 is fixed to the pressureforce multiplier 40. According to some embodiments, the pressure forcemultiplier 40 is a diaphragm 40. The diaphragm 40 extends radiallybetween the vent ring 26 and the inner surface 44 of the chamber 42. Thediaphragm 40 is flexible and durable, and may be fabricated from anysuitable material such as rubber, latex, plastic or other material ormaterials. Because the flange 38 is connected to the diaphragm 40,downward motion of the diaphragm 40 causes the flange 38, and thus thevalve 20 as a whole, to move downward; upward motion of the diaphragm 40causes the flange 38, and thus the valve 20 as a whole, to move upward.According to some embodiments, the diaphragm 40 may be biased toward itsposition in the inhalation configuration. According to otherembodiments, the diaphragm 40 may be bistable, such that it is stableboth in its position in the inhalation configuration and its position inthe exhalation configuration. In this embodiment, the valve 20 ismoveable along an axis of movement relative to said venturi opening 16in said venturi nozzle 14 between a start flow position that causesentrainment of the ambient fluid by the flow of pressure-controlledfluid (for example, pressure-controlled oxygen) within said throat 19,and a stop flow position that ceases entrainment of the ambient fluid bythe flow of pressure-controlled fluid within said throat 19. Forinstance, in an embodiment of the present invention, said pressure forcemultiplier 40 is configured such that fluid forced into said fluid port54 actuates said valve 20 along said axis of movement relative to saidventuri nozzle 14 to close said venturi nozzle 14; additionally, in anembodiment of the present invention, said pressure force multiplier 40is configured such that fluid withdrawn from said fluid port 54 actuatessaid valve 20 along said axis of movement relative to said venturinozzle 14. The axis of movement of said valve 20, in this embodiment, issubstantially longitudinally aligned with a longitudinal direction ofsaid throat 19. In this embodiment, at least a portion of said valve 20is movable, along said axis of movement, within said throat 19.

Referring also to FIG. 2A, in the inhalation configuration, an inletpassage 41 is in fluid communication with the central passage 17. Thevent ring 26 is in an upward position relative to the venturi nozzle 14.As a result, the bottom 27 of the vent ring 26 may be substantially evenwith the lower surface 37 of the vent ring seat 36, and the inletaperture 43 is thus open, placing the central passage 17 in fluidcommunication with the inlet passage 41. The flange 38 may be configuredas a grid or grate, such as the concentric grid shown in FIG. 2A, suchthat a plurality of flange openings 39 allow fluid to flow therethrough.In the inhalation configuration, both sides of the diaphragm 40 are thusin fluid communication with one other via the flange openings 39; thoseflange openings 39 place the inlet passage 41 and the fluid port 54 influid communication in the inhalation configuration. Thus, in theinhalation configuration, the central passage 17, the inlet passage 41,and the fluid port 54 are in fluid communication with one another, suchthat enriched air flows freely from the venturi nozzle 14 to the fluidport 54, and then to the patient.

Where the diaphragm 40 is bistable, the diaphragm 40 may be in one ofits two bistable configurations in the inhalation configuration, as seenin FIG. 2A. Utilizing a bistable diaphragm 40 with a stableconfiguration in the inhalation configuration means the patient need notutilize any breathing force to maintain the inhalation configurationafter that inhalation configuration has been reached; as a result, theventilator 2 may be useful for treating patients with degraded breathingcapability. Where the diaphragm 40 is stable in a single configuration,that configuration may be the inhalation configuration as shown in FIG.2A.

The pressure force multiplier 40 is in fluid communication with saidfluid port 54, wherein said pressure force multiplier 40 includes atleast one opening 39 defined therethrough; said pressure forcemultiplier 40 comprising at least one flap 70 movable between an openposition and a closed position relative to said at least one opening 39.One or more flaps 70 may be associated with the flange 38, referringalso to FIG. 3B. The flaps 70 are described in greater detail below withregard to FIG. 3B. In the inhalation configuration, fluid flow towardthe fluid port 54 causes the flaps 70 to be blown upward away from theflange 38 and its (flange) openings 39, allowing for the free flow ofenriched air to the patient through the (flange) openings 39. In thisembodiment, said pressure force multiplier 40 is positioned between saidventuri nozzle 14 and said fluid port 54.

A limiter 72 optionally may be positioned in the chamber 42 above theflange 38. According to some embodiments, the limiter 72 may be a ringhaving substantially the same diameter as the vent ring 26, where thelimiter 72 is substantially coaxial with the vent ring 26. The limiter72 may be connected to, fixed to, or integral with one or more ribs 74that extend therefrom. The one or more ribs 74 may extend upward fromthe limiter 72; alternately, one or more ribs 74 may extend laterallyfrom or downward from the limiter 72. The ribs 74 may be substantiallyrigid, such that they do not substantially undergo bending or flexureduring normal usage of the ventilator 2. According to other embodiments,one or more ribs 74 may be flexible. Each rib 74 is connected at one endto the limiter 72, and at the other end to a portion of the chamber 40.For example, one or more ribs 74 are connected to the upper wall 76 ofthe chamber 40. The ribs 74 may be fixed to or integral with the upperwall 76 of the chamber 40. For example, the upper wall 76 of the chamber40, the ribs 74, and the limiter 72 may be injection molded, fabricatedby additive manufacturing, or fabricated in any other manner as a singleintegral piece. The limiter 72 prevents the vent ring 26, and thus thevalve 20, from moving upward out of the vent ring seat 36 and/or thestem seat 21.

According to some embodiments, the limiter 72 has another shape than aring. For example, the limiter 72 may be a bar, a rod, an X-shape, asquare, a rectangle, an oval, or any other suitable shape. The limiter72 may have any shape, and be placed relative to the vent ring 26 in anylocation, that both engages the vent ring 26 in the inhalationconfiguration to limit its travel upward to prevent the valve 20 and/orthe vent ring 26 from becoming unseated, and allows for substantiallyunrestricted fluid flow out of the flange openings 39.

At the upper end of the chamber 42, a fluid port 54 allows inhalationair to flow out of the ventilator 2 and exhalation air to flow into theventilator 2. At least one filter 56 may be positioned adjacent to thefluid port 54, in order to filter both inhalation and exhalation air.The filter 56 advantageously is a 3 micron filter or other filtersuitable for removing viruses, pollen and other airborne contaminantsfrom the air. In this way, the filter 56 protects the patient fromambient contaminants, and also protects others near the ventilator 2from infection from air exhaled from the patient. The filter 56 isdetachably connected to the ventilator 2, so that the filter 56 may beperiodically replaced. The filter 56 may be a single-use filter, or maybe cleanable and sterilizable such that it can be reused after cleaningand sterilization. Alternately, the filter 56 may be placed adjacent tothe ambient fluid aperture 4, or at another location on the ventilator2. For example, according to some embodiments, the filter 56 ispositioned adjacent to the ambient fluid aperture 4, in order to filterboth inhalation and exhalation air. In this way, the filter 56 protectsthe patient from ambient contaminants, and also protects others near theventilator 2 from infection from air exhaled from the patient.Alternately, more than one filter 56 may be utilized.

The chamber 42 may be connected via the fluid port 54 to a respirator(not shown) that is worn by the patient. As typically used in theindustry, the term “respirator” refers to a device that providesrespirable air to a patient or other user, such as by providing a supplyof breathable gas. However, as used in this document, the term“respirator” is specifically defined to exclude any requirement that therespirator itself filter anything from the air provided to the patient,or exhaled by the patient. According to some embodiments, the respiratoris substantially impermeable to fluid, whether gas or liquid. Accordingto some embodiments, the respirator may be a mask provided withcompliant sealing surfaces or other seal or seals such that asubstantially airtight seal is created against the patients face.According to some embodiments, the respirator may be a helmet or otherstructure that engages a different part of the patient than the face;for example, the respirator may be a helmet that substantially sealsagainst the patient's neck and does not touch the face. According tosome embodiments, all of the respirator or a portion of the respiratormay be positioned within the patient's nose and/or mouth, and therespirator is substantially sealed relative to the nose and/or mouth.According to some embodiments, such as those described above, therespirator is substantially sealed relative to the patient's airway. Bysubstantially sealing the respirator relative to the patient's airway,slight pressure changes when the patient breathes cause the valve 20 tomove, as described in greater detail below. In this way, the respiratorand thus the patient are in fluid communication with the ventilator 2.Because the respirator is substantially impermeable to gas,substantially all of the patient's exhalation breath reaches the fluidport 54 of the ventilator 2, such that only a small exhalation effortcauses the valve 20 to move. Alternately, the respirator and the patientmay be in fluid communication with the ventilator 2 in any othersuitable manner.

Referring to FIGS. 3-4, a ventilator 2 is shown in an exhalationconfiguration, in which a patient is exhaling gas through the ventilator2. As described in greater detail below, exhalation pressure from thepatient flexes the center of the diaphragm 40 downward. As a result, theflange 38, which is connected to the diaphragm 40, moves downward.Downward motion of the flange 38 may be limited by the vent ring seat36, the upper surface of which may engage a lower surface of the flange38, thereby preventing further downward motion of the flange 38. In theexhalation configuration, the valve 20 has moved downward relative tothe venturi nozzle 14, and the tapered end 24 of the stem 22substantially blocks the venturi opening 16. In this way, oxygen flowfrom the fluid inlet 6 outward through the venturi opening 16 issubstantially stopped. Advantageously, the length of the stem 22 isfabricated such that the tapered end 24 or other lower end of the stem22 substantially blocks the venturi opening 16 when the flange 38engages the vent ring seat 36.

Referring also to FIG. 3A, in the exhalation configuration, the inletpassage 41 is no longer substantially in fluid communication with thecentral passage 17. The vent ring 26 is in an downward position relativeto the venturi nozzle 14. As a result, the bottom 27 of the vent ring 26is positioned below the lower surface 37 of the vent ring seat 36, andthe inlet aperture 43 is thus closed, substantially closing the centralpassage 17 in fluid communication with the inlet passage 41. An O-ringor other seal (not shown) may extend radially outward from the vent ringseat 36 to facilitate closure of the inlet aperture 43 in the exhalationconfiguration. Alternately, the inlet aperture 43 need not be closed, inwhole or in part, in the exhalation configuration, because exhalationair will still travel outward through the central passage 17 asdescribed below.

In the exhalation configuration, the flange 38 has moved downwardrelative to its position in the inhalation configuration, and may be incontact with the vent ring seat 36. In this way, the vent ring seat 36may act to limit downward motion of the vent ring 26. Alternately,contact between the tapered end 24 of the stem 22 and the venturi nozzle14 limits downward motion of the vent ring 26. Where the flange 38 is inthe exhalation configuration and the flange 38 contacts the vent ringseat 36, that contact may block at least one of the flange openings 39.Referring also to FIG. 3B, in the exhalation configuration, fluid flowfrom the fluid port 54 causes the flaps 70 to be pushed down onto theflange 38 and the flange openings 39, substantially stopping the freeflow of fluid from the patient through the flange openings 39. In thisway, because the flange openings 39 are substantially blocked by theflaps 70, the inlet aperture 43 may remain partly or even entirely open,and exhalation air still cannot substantially flow outward through theflange openings 39 and then outward through the inlet aperture 43. Inthe exhalation configuration, both sides of the diaphragm 40 may beblocked from fluid communication with one other via the flange openings39. Thus, in the inhalation configuration, the inlet passage 41 and thefluid port 54 are not substantially in fluid communication with oneanother. The flaps 70 may be thin and lightweight, and generallyimpermeable to fluid. For example, the flaps 70 may be composed oflatex, rubber, silicone or any other suitable substance.

Because the flange openings 39 are closed, exhalation by the patientinto the fluid port 54 causes a pressure rise in the chamber 42 abovethe diaphragm 40. This rise in pressure pushes the flange 38 downwardinto contact with or into proximity to the vent ring seat 36, to theexhalation position of the flange 38. Where the diaphragm 40 isbistable, the diaphragm 40 may be in one of its two bistableconfigurations in the exhalation configuration, as seen in FIG. 3A.Utilizing a bistable diaphragm 40 with a stable configuration in theexhalation configuration means the patient need not utilize anybreathing force to maintain the exhalation configuration after thatexhalation configuration has been reached; as a result, the ventilator 2may be useful for treating patients with degraded breathing capability.Where the diaphragm 40 is stable in a single configuration, thatconfiguration may be the exhalation configuration as shown in FIG. 3A.

The vent ring 36 includes one or more exhalation windows 78 definedthrough the side of the vent ring 36. One or more exhalation windows 78may be located at or near the bottom 27 of the vent ring 36. As the ventring 36 moves downward, the exhalation windows 78 move downward, belowthe lower surface 37 of the vent ring seat 36. The central passage 17 islocated below the vent ring seat 36, such that when the exhalationwindows 78 move below the lower surface 37 of the vent ring seat 36,exhaled air can flow out of the chamber 42 above the diaphragm 40,through the exhalation windows 78 in the vent ring 26, into the centralpassage 17, and then out of the ventilator 2 through the ambient fluidaperture 4. Thus, in the exhalation configuration, the fluid port 54 andthe central passage are in fluid communication with one another.

Operation

The operation of the ventilator 2 now will be described. The fluid port54 of the ventilator 2 is placed in fluid communication with arespirator, which is attached to a patient. The respirator is providedwith compliant sealing surfaces such that a substantially airtight sealis created against the patients face. The patient inhales from andexhales into the respirator. In turn, the respirator is in fluidcommunication with the airway of the patient. In this way, the fluidport 54 of the ventilator 2 is placed in fluid communication with thepatient's airway. According to other embodiments, the fluid port 54 maybe any apparatus other than a respirator that places the fluid port 54in fluid communication with the patient's airway; the use of therespirator to do so is not critical to the invention.

Upon inhalation by the patient, pressure above the diaphragm 40 isreduced compared to ambient air pressure. As a result, the diaphragm 40flexes upward at and in proximity to its center. Alternately, thediaphragm 40 may be biased upward, at least in part, independently fromthe patient's inhalation. The upward motion of the diaphragm 40 movesthe flange 38 upward, because the flange 38 is connected to thediaphragm 40. Because the flange 38 is part of or connected to the valve20, that upward motion of the diaphragm 40 causes the valve 20 to moveupward. That upward motion of the valve 20 moves the stem 22 upward,thus moving the tapered end 24 of the step out of the venturi opening 16and away from the venturi nozzle 14. Because the tapered end 24 of thestem 22 has moved out of the venturi opening 16, oxygen is again free toescape from the venturi opening 16. Thus, in this embodiment, oxygenflow out of the venturi opening 16 restarts purely mechanically, poweredby inhalation by the patient via the fluid port 54. Oxygen flows out ofthe venturi opening 16 as long as the tapered end 24 of the stem 22 isspaced apart from the venturi opening 16. This position of the valve 20,in which the stem 22 is spaced apart from the venturi opening 16 andfluid can flow out of the venturi opening 16, is the start flow positionof the valve 20.

Oxygen may be supplied to the fluid inlet 6 from any suitable source.According to some embodiments, high pressure oxygen is connected to apressure regulator, which drops the pressure of that oxygen and outputslower pressure oxygen to the fluid inlet 6. In one embodiment, thepressure regulator is the GovReg® adjustable flow regulator of LegacyUS, Inc, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/488,319,filed Apr. 14, 2017 (the “GovReg® document), which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety. That U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/488,319 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/990,673. The U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/488,319application also expressly incorporates by reference therein the U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/990,673 application in paragraph [0001]of the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/488,319 application asoriginally filed. Thus, the contents of the U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/990,673 application are incorporated by reference in the presentapplication and specifically FIGS. 5A, 5B, 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D and theassociated text of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/990,673. The useof the GovReg® pressure regulator allows a healthcare worker to set thepressure for a patient and fix that pressure, such that it cannot bechanged without the use of an adjustment key that only healthcareworkers can change it. This provides additional safety for the patient.Further, multiple ventilators 2 can be connected to the same highpressure oxygen source, and each ventilator 2 can receive a differentpressure of oxygen depending on the setting of the GovReg® pressureregulator associated with that ventilator. As described in the “GovReg®document, the pressure regulator may include a housing formed to includea bore within, and a piston movable within that bore, where the pistonmay include an annular lip adjacent to an end of the piston. A springmay be disposed within the bore, where the spring has two ends, and anadjustment cap may be moveably disposed in the bore, where theadjustment cap may include key slots formed therein. A first end of thespring may be in physical contact with the annular lip, and a second endof the spring may be in physical contact with the adjustment cap. Thebore may be defined by a cylindrical wall, and the cylindrical wall maybe threaded. The adjustment cap may be threaded as well, such that itsthreading meshes with the threading of the cylindrical wall. Rotatingthe adjustment cap in one direction may cause the adjustment cap tocompress the spring and increase the output pressure of the pressureregulator, and rotating the adjustment cap in the opposite direction maycause the adjustment cap to decompress the spring and decrease theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator. The adjustment key may be, ormay be detachably connected to, the adjustment cap; the adjustment keymay be detachable from the pressure regulator. Thus, in someembodiments, rotation of the adjustment cap allows a healthcare workerto set and fix the pressure for a patient.

Referring now to FIGS. 9-14, a pressure regulator 700 comprises housing510, piston 760 moveably disposed within housing 510 wherein piston 760is formed to include an annular lip 762, compression spring 720, andadjustment cap 750. Spring 720 is disposed between annular lip 520 andadjustment cap 750.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-14, adjustment cap 750 is formed to includethreading adjacent a first end thereof. Threading 752 is configured tomesh with internal threading 780 (FIG. 11).

Compression spring 720 determines the regulated output pressure inportion 740. Rotating adjustment cap in a first direction compressesspring 720, and increases the output pressure in region 740 (FIG. 11) ofregulator 700. Rotating adjustment cap in a second and oppositedirection decompresses spring 720, and decreases the output pressure inregion 740 (FIG. 11) of regulator 700.

Adjustment cap 750 is further formed to include key slots 754 and 756which extend inwardly in a second end thereof. Adjustment cap 750 isfurther formed to include an aperture 758 extending therethrough. Shaft764 of piston 760 passes through aperture 758.

Oxygen travels through the fluid inlet 6 and then the passages 12, thenthrough the venturi nozzle 14 and out of the venturi opening 16. Theflow of oxygen outward through the venturi opening 16 entrains ambientair entering the ventilator 2 through the ambient fluid aperture 4, anddraws ambient air into the throat 19 of the venturi 10, where oxygen andambient air are mixed. The venturi nozzle 14 may be sized and configuredto create a mixture of ambient air and oxygen that delivers a 26%fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) to the patient. This percentage ofFiO2 is a recommended oxygen concentration, but other fractions may beused as needed. Accuracy of the fraction of oxygen is not critical, andthat fraction may be adjusted by a clinician or other healthcare workeras required. For example, the FiO2 may be adjusted to 40% from 26% asneeded by the patient; after the FiO2 has been adjusted to 40%, if thepatient needs additional oxygen, the patient may then be removed fromthe ventilator 2, intubated, and then placed on a currently-knownventilator.

The enriched air travels upward through the central passage 17 to theinlet aperture 43. In the inhalation configuration, the inlet passage 41is in fluid communication with the central passage 17. As describedabove, in the inhalation configuration, the vent ring 26 is in an upwardposition relative to the venturi nozzle 14. In the inhalationconfiguration, the lowered pressure in the chamber 42 above thediaphragm 40, caused by inhalation by the patient through the fluid port54, causes the diaphragm 40 to move upward. Inhalation withdraws gasfrom the chamber 42 above the diaphragm 40, decreasing the pressure andactuating the valve 20 relative to the venturi nozzle 14. The flange 38may contact the limiter 72, such that the flange 38 does not move higherthan the limiter 72 allows. Upward motion of the diaphragm 40 causes theflange 38, which is attached to the flange 38, to move upward. Upwardmotion of the flange 38 causes the valve 20, of which the flange 38 is apart, to move upward as well. Such upward motion of the valve 20 movesthe stem 22 away from the venturi nozzle 14, thereby unblocking theventuri opening 16 and allowing gas to flow outward therefrom. Thediaphragm 40 is an example of a pressure force multiplier 40, becausethe surface area of the diaphragm 40 in combination with the flangeopenings 39 allow for a small differential change in pressure at thefluid port 54 to actuate the valve 20 between closed and open states.

As described above, in the inhalation configuration, the inlet aperture43 is open, placing the central passage 17 in fluid communication withthe inlet passage 41, and both sides of the diaphragm 40 are thus influid communication with one other via the flange openings 39; as aresult, those flange openings 39 place the inlet passage 41 and thefluid port 54 in fluid communication in the inhalation configuration.Thus, in the inhalation configuration, the central passage 17, the inletpassage 41, and the fluid port 54 are in fluid communication with oneanother, such that enriched air flows freely from the venturi nozzle 14to the fluid port 54, and then to the patient.

The patient inhales normally, or as normally as possible. The ventilator2 is a simple, single-mode ventilator that does not deliver a specific,limited or preselected volume or flow rate of air to the patient;instead, it delivers air at a volume and flow rate that are controlledsolely by the patient's own inhalation. Further, the ventilator 2 onlydelivers enriched air to the patient during the patient's inhalation,and momentarily afterward. As opposed to continuous positive airwaypressure (CPAP) or positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) ventilation,enriched air is only supplied to the patient during inhalation. In thisway, the ventilator 2 does not apply pressure to the patient's nose ormouth while the patient is trying to exhale, and oxygen is not wasted byapplying it to the patient's nose or mouth while the patient is activelyexhaling.

After inhalation, the patient then exhales. Upon exhalation by thepatient, pressure above the diaphragm 40 is increased compared toambient air pressure. Referring also to FIG. 3B, in the exhalationconfiguration, fluid flow into the chamber 42 from the fluid port 54causes the flaps 70 to be pushed down onto the flange 38 and the flangeopenings 39, substantially stopping the free flow of fluid from thepatient through the flange openings 39. In this way, because the flangeopenings 39 are substantially blocked by the flaps 70, the inletaperture 43 may remain partly or even entirely open, and exhalation airstill cannot substantially flow outward through the flange openings 39and then outward through the inlet aperture 43. In the exhalationconfiguration, both sides of the diaphragm 40 may be blocked from fluidcommunication with one other via the flange openings 39. Thus, in theexhalation configuration, the inlet passage 41 and the fluid port 54 arenot substantially in fluid communication with one another.

Because the flange openings 39 are closed, exhalation by the patientinto the fluid port 54 causes a pressure rise in the chamber 42 abovethe diaphragm 40. That is, exhalation forces gas into the chamber 42above the diaphragm 40, increasing the pressure and actuating the valve20 relative to the venturi nozzle 14. This rise in pressure pushes theflange 38 downward into contact with or into proximity to the vent ringseat 36, to the exhalation position of the flange 38. Because the flange38 is part of or connected to the valve 20, that downward motion of thediaphragm 40 causes the valve 20 to move downward. That downward motionof the valve 20 moves the stem 22 downward, thus moving the tapered end24 of the step toward from the venturi nozzle 14 and into the venturiopening 16. Because the tapered end 24 of the stem 22 has moved into theventuri opening 16, oxygen is substantially restricted from escapingfrom the venturi opening 16. Thus, oxygen flow out of the venturiopening 16 stops purely mechanically, powered by exhalation by thepatient through the fluid port 54. Oxygen is substantially restrictedfrom escaping out of the venturi opening 16 as long as the tapered end24 of the stem 22 plugs the venturi opening 16. This position of thevalve 20, in which the stem 22 plugs the venturi opening 16 and fluid issubstantially restricted from flowing out of the venturi opening 16, isthe stop flow position of the valve 20.

As the flange 38 and the vent ring 36 moves downward, the exhalationwindows 78 move downward, below the lower surface 37 of the vent ringseat 36. The central passage 17 is located below the vent ring seat 36,such that when the exhalation windows 78 move below the lower surface 37of the vent ring seat 36, exhaled air can flow out of the chamber 42above the diaphragm 40, through the exhalation windows 78 in the ventring 26, into the central passage 17, and then out of the ventilator 2through the ambient fluid aperture 4. Thus, in the exhalationconfiguration, the fluid port 54 and the central passage are in fluidcommunication with one another. The exhaled breath then travels throughthe central passage 17 and out of the ventilator 2 through the ambientfluid aperture 4. When the patient then inhales again, the cycle ofoperation described above repeats again.

Because the ventilator 2 does not require electrical power to operateaccording to some embodiments, its form factor may be comparativelysmall, such that the ventilator 2 may be portable. The ventilator 2 maybe carried on the user's back by a strap or straps like a backpack; maybe carried by a strap over the shoulder like a purse, may be wheeled andable to be pulled behind a user like luggage, or may be otherwiseportable. The portability of the ventilator 2 also allows the user totake the ventilator 2 home. Home use of the ventilator 2 may beadvantageous for patients who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or otherrespiratory disease, but whose symptoms have not advanced to the levelof seriousness of ARDS such that they require intubated ventilation. Inthis way, during a pandemic such as the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, patientswho are infected with a virus that causes respiratory problems can betreated safely at home, without consuming hospital beds and otherhospital resources needed for patients who are significantly sicker andcloser to death.

Because the ventilator 2 is small and portable and noninvasive, andsimply provides enriched air with a higher oxygen concentration to auser, the ventilator 2 may find use in other applications. As oneexample, the ventilator 2 may be useful in the treatment of asthmaand/or seasonal allergies. The user wears a respirator as describedabove, and the ventilator 2 works substantially as described above; auser utilizes it as a portable device. The increased oxygenconcentration delivered by the ventilator 2 may be beneficial for asthmasufferers, and the filter(s) 56 may be useful for removing pollen andother allergens from the air before they can be inhaled by the user,thereby improving symptoms experienced by those who suffer from seasonalallergies. As another example, in extremely polluted cities, the air maybe unhealthy to breathe. By utilizing the ventilator 2 as a portabledevice, clean oxygen is delivered to the user at a higher than ambientconcentration, and the filter(s) 56 may be useful for removingparticulates and/or other pollutants from the ambient air prior toinhalation by the user.

The ventilator 2 described above with regard to FIGS. 1-4 may findparticular use in the treatment of patients infected with the COVID-19virus, especially prior to their development of ARDS. It is believedthat treatment of such patients utilizing the ventilator 2 may prevent aportion of such patients from developing ARDS. It is expected that theventilator 2 would be classified as a Class II medical device by the FDAand would thus require approval by the FDA for use in treating patients.While the regulatory path for approval by the FDA of the ventilator 2 isunknown as of the filing date of this document, it is expected that foruse as a medical device, the ventilator 2 would require at least one ofan Investigational Device Exemption (IDE), an Emergency UseAuthorization (EUA), and a Premarket Approval (PMA). The independentclaims as filed are believed to cover embodiments of the ventilator 2that would be subject to an applicable FDA approval.

However, the ventilator 2 is not limited to use the treatment ofpatients infected with the COVID-19 virus; the ventilator 2 may be usedto treat patients suffering from other ailments. Further, the ventilator2 may find use in fields other than healthcare in which control of fluidflow is desired, and need not be used in conjunction with a human beingin such fields. Further, the ventilator 2 is described above as havingcomponents in fluid communication with one another and with one or moreexternal attachments, such as a respirator. Where the ventilator 2 isutilized to treat a patient, the fluid of that fluid communication is agas. However, where the ventilator 2 is utilized in other applications,the fluid may be a liquid, or a mixture of liquid and gas.

While the embodiment of the invention described above arose in anendeavor to facilitate treatment of respiratory conditions associatedwith COVID-19, it will be understood that the fluid mixer 2 has variousother uses and applications in other fields, which include but are notlimited to the following. As one example, in Formula 1 racing and otherracing applications, the fluid mixer 2 may be used to pre-spinturbochargers by detecting pressure changes, to actuate cam timingchanges based on pressure, to actuate opening of fuel/air and exhaustports based on pressure, to actuate aerodynamic downforce adjustmentbased on pressure conditions at a sample site, to actuate fuel systempressure adjustment, and to regulate temperature in fluid. As anotherexample, in standard automotive usage, the fluid mixer 2 may be used toactuate turbocharger pre-spin, to actuate cam timing changes, to actuateopening of fuel/air and exhaust ports based on pressure, to actuate fuelsystem pressure adjustment, and to regulate temperature in fluid Asanother example, in indoor agriculture applications, the fluid mixer 2may be used to actuate gas mixing based on pressure, and/or to actuate apressure communication system. In such applications, the fluid thatflows through the fluid mixer 2 may be a liquid, a gas, or both.

Referring also to FIGS. 5-8, another embodiment of the fluid mixer 2 isshown. Such an embodiment may be described as a “reverse configuration.”Such an embodiment may be useful for automotive or racing applications,although the fluid mixer 2 of FIGS. 5-8 is not limited to use in suchapplications. Any embodiment may be used with liquid, gas or both as thefluid. As seen in FIGS. 5-8, the valve 20 is in a start flow position,in which fluid can enter the fluid mixer 2 through the fluid inlet 6.The valve 20 may include a tapered end 24 or other suitably-shaped end,which is received in a bore 80. A spring 82 may be received in the bore80 as well. One end of the spring 82 may engage an end of the bore 80,and the other end of the spring 82 may engage an end of the valve 20.The other end 84 of the valve 20 may be substantially cylindrical, orhave any other suitable shape. The end 84 of the valve 20 is received ina pipe 86 through which fluid can flow. The bore 80 is substantiallyhollow, such that fluid flows from the fluid inlet 6 through the bore 80when the valve 20 is in the start flow position, and then into one ormore passages 12. As described in the with regard to the previousembodiment, fluid flows out of the one or more passages 12 through theventuri opening 16 in the venturi nozzle 14.

In this embodiment, the pressure force multiplier 40 is substantiallysealed to the chamber 42 to form a sealed plenum 88. Unlike the previousembodiment, fluid does not substantially cross the pressure forcemultiplier 40. When fluid flows into the fluid mixer 2 through the fluidport 54, that fluid flows toward the ambient fluid aperture 4 throughthe central passage 17. The chamber 42 is open to the central passage 17through a chamber opening 90. The chamber opening 90 may have anysuitable shape and size. The chamber opening 90 allows for fluidcommunication between the chamber 42 and the central passage 17. Whenfluid is forced into the central passage 17 through the fluid port 54,pressure in the central passage 17 increases. Pressure in the chamber 42on the side of the pressure force multiplier 40 opposite the plenum 88increases as well due to fluid communication through the chamber opening90. Because the pressure force multiplier 40 is substantially sealed tothe chamber 42 and fluid substantially cannot cross the pressure forcemultiplier 40, pressure on the pressure force multiplier 40 increases,causing the pressure force multiplier 40 to move and thus decrease thevolume of the plenum 88, increasing the pressure in the plenum 88 aswell. That increased pressure in the plenum 88 is transmitted throughthe pipe 86 to the end 84 of the valve 20. That pressure drives the end84 of the valve 20 toward the spring 82 in the bore 80, opening thevalve 20 to the start flow position. In the start flow position, thetapered end 24 of the valve 20, or otherwise-shaped end of the valve 20,moves apart from the aperture 92, allowing fluid to flow through theaperture 92 into the bore 80. It may be that the volume of the plenum88, along with the volume of the pipe 86, remains substantially constantduring this process. This is because the end 84 of the valve 20 in thebore 80 is movable, such that any momentary increase in pressure in anddecrease in volume of the plenum 88 may be substantially matched bymovement of the end 84 of the valve 20. In this way, a substantiallyfixed volume may be defined on one side of the pressure force multiplier40.

When fluid flows into the fluid mixer 2 through the ambient fluidaperture 4, that fluid flows toward the fluid port 54 through thecentral passage 17. When fluid is withdrawn through the fluid port 54,pressure in the central passage 17 decreases. Pressure in the chamber 42on the side of the pressure force multiplier 40 opposite the plenum 88decreases as well due to fluid communication through the chamber opening90. Because the pressure force multiplier 40 is substantially sealed tothe chamber 42 and fluid substantially cannot cross the pressure forcemultiplier 40, pressure on the pressure force multiplier 40 decreases,causing the pressure force multiplier 40 to move and thus increase thevolume of the plenum 88, decreasing the pressure in the plenum 88 aswell. That decreased pressure in the plenum 88 is transmitted throughthe pipe 86 to the end 84 of the valve 20. The pressure applied to theend 84 of the valve 20 in the bore 80 decreases, allowing the spring 82to push the end 84 of the valve 20 further into the pipe 86. The spring82 may be a compression spring that biases the valve 20 toward the stopflow positions; motion of the valve 20 toward the pipe 86 closes thevalve 20 to the stop flow position. In the stop flow position, thetapered end 24 of the valve 20, or otherwise-shaped end of the valve 20,moves toward and substantially blocks the aperture 92, substantiallystopping fluid flow through the aperture 92 into the bore 80. Accordingto some embodiments, the start flow position of the valve 20 is also theactive flow position, allowing fluid to flow while the valve is in thestart flow position. Alternately, the valve 20 may be positioned in adifferent active flow position, between the start flow and stop flowpositions; such an active flow position may be determined by the levelor duration of force with which fluid is forced into the fluid port 54or withdrawn from the fluid port 54.

Referring now to FIGS. 15A-15G, there is shown various views of anattachment device generally indicated 1501. The attachment device 1501comprising a body 1503 having a fluid outlet port 1505 and, in thisembodiment, two fluid inlet ports 1507. It will be understood that inother embodiments, the attachment device may have more than two fluidinlet ports. Each fluid inlet port 1507 is connectable to a respectivefluid source (not shown). Each fluid inlet port 1507 is in fluidcommunication with the fluid outlet port 1505. A fluid may thus travelinto the attachment device 1501 via one of the fluid inlet ports 1507and out via the fluid outlet port 1505, when allowed by the attachmentdevice mechanism(s) 1509. Each fluid inlet port 1507 comprises anattachment device mechanism 1509 for selectively starting and stoppingthe flow of fluid from the respective fluid source (not shown) to thefluid outlet port 1505.

In this embodiment, the body 1503 is in the form of a short hollowcylinder 1511 with a hollow triangular prism 1513 sat on top thereof(shaped much like the roof of a typical house). Of course, it will beappreciated that the body can take any suitable shape. In thisembodiment, each fluid inlet port 1507 comprises an arm 1515 extendingfrom the body 1513. More specifically, each arm 1515 extends generallydiagonally upwardly which is extending orthogonally from an angled face1517 of the hollow triangular prism 1513 such that they define an angleof approximately 120 degrees between one another, and approximately 120degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the short hollowcylinder 1511. Each arm 1515 is shaped as an elongate hollow cylinder1519 having an access hole 1521 at one end 1523 for receiving fluid froma respective fluid source (not shown). Towards the other end 1525 of theelongate hollow cylinder 1519 there are provided a pair of apertures1527, which in this embodiment are in the shape of rectangular holesthat are cut out of the wall of each of the elongate hollow cylinders1519. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the fluid inletports 1507 may each comprise more than two apertures.

As best seen in FIG. 15F, there is shown that each fluid inlet port 1507comprises an attachment device mechanism 1509 for selectively startingand stopping the flow of fluid from the respective fluid source (notshown) to the fluid outlet port 1505. The attachment device mechanism1509 comprises a valve 1529 having a ball 1531 moveable between an openvalve position (shown in later embodiments) and closed valve position(as shown in FIG. 15F). In the closed valve position, each valve orifice1533 is sealed shut by each ball 1529 housed within each fluid inletport 1507. The attachment device mechanism 1509 also comprises a spring1535 housed within each fluid inlet port 1507. More particularly, thevalve 1529 comprises the spring 1535 for biasing the ball 1531 to theclosed valve position (as shown in FIG. 15F).

Each arm 1515 comprises a groove 1537 about its periphery. In thisembodiment, the groove 1537 is positioned towards the end 1523 closestto the access hole 1521. As can also be seen in FIG. 15F, the body 1503comprises a hollow chamber 1539 that allows fluid communication betweenthe hollow triangular prism 1513 and the short hollow cylinder 1511.During operation, when the valve 1529 is open, for example, fluid from afluid source (not shown) may enter the access hole 1521, through/aroundthe spring 1535, around the ball 1531, through the valve orifice 1533,into the hollow chamber 1539, and exit via the fluid outlet port 1505.In this embodiment, the body 1503 comprises internal threading 1541 atthe fluid outlet port 1505 that is connectable to another device, suchas a pressure regulator (not shown in FIG. 15F) having externalthreading (not shown in FIG. 15F).

As can also be seen in FIG. 15F, the attachment device 1501 comprises ableeder valve 1543 that comprises a fluid pressure indicator which aidsan operator in ensuring that the correct/minimum fluid pressure/flow ispresent before disengaging a fluid source (not shown) from a fluid inletport 1507, thereby maintaining the fluid pressure/flow of fluid enteringand exiting the attachment device 1501 via the fluid inlet ports 1507and fluid outlet port 1505, respectively.

Referring now to FIGS. 16A-16G, there is shown various views of anattachment device formed according to another embodiment of theinvention. The embodiment of FIGS. 16A-16G is the same as FIGS. 15A-15G(like numbers denote like features), except the attachment device ofFIGS. 16A-16G comprises three fluid inlet ports 1607 instead of twofluid inlet ports 1507 (as shown in FIGS. 15A-15G). The hollowtriangular prism 1513 of FIGS. 15A-15G is also replaced with a hollowpyramid 1613 having three angled faces 1617 to accommodate for theadditional fluid inlet port 1607. The three fluid inlet ports 1607 areangled and arranged in the shape of a tripod.

Referring now to FIGS. 17A-17G, there is shown various views of anattachment device formed according to another embodiment of theinvention. The embodiment of FIGS. 17A-17G is the same as FIGS. 15A-15G(like numbers denote like features), except the attachment device ofFIGS. 17A-17G comprises four fluid inlet ports 1707 instead of two fluidinlet ports 1507 (as shown in FIGS. 15A-15G). The hollow triangularprism 1513 of FIGS. 15A-15G is also replaced with a hollow cube 1713having four faces 1717 to accommodate for the additional two fluid inletports 1707. The four fluid inlet ports 1707 lie in the same plane andare arranged in the shape of a cross.

Referring now to FIGS. 18A-18B, there is shown a perspective cutawayview and a side cutaway view of a connector generally indicated 1845that is formed according to an embodiment of the invention. Theconnector 1845 is for connecting a fluid source 1847 and an attachmentdevice (not shown in FIG. 18A/18B), the connector being attachable tothe fluid source 1847 and an attachment device (not shown in FIG.18A/18B). In this embodiment, the fluid source 1847 is a tubular fluidpipe 1849 and is attached to the connector 1845 by a hose barb (notshown). The connecter 1845 comprising a housing 1851 and a connectormechanism 1853 for selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluidfrom the fluid source 1847 (tubular fluid pipe 1849) to the attachmentdevice (not shown in FIG. 18A/18B).

In this embodiment, the housing 1851 is an elongate hollow cylinder 1855with the tubular fluid pipe 1849 attached at one end 1857 acting as afluid access end, wherein the opposite end 1859 comprises a connecterexit hole 1862 through which fluid can exit the connector towards andinto an attachment device (not shown in FIG. 18A/18B), for example. Thehousing 1851 has a hollow interior 1878.

The connecter mechanism 1853 comprises, in this embodiment, two couplers1861 each having a wedge member 1863. Of course, it will be understood,in other embodiments, the connecter mechanism may comprise more than twocouplers. More specifically, in this embodiment, the two couplers 1861are pincer rods 1865 each having the wedge member 1863 disposed at oneend 1867 thereof. The two couplers 1861/pincer rods 1865 are hingeablydisposed in the housing 1851 by a pair of pins 1869. The pins arepositioned towards the opposite end 1871 of the pincer rods 1865. Whenactuated, the pincer rods 1865 can pivot about the pins 1869 so that thewedge members 1863 are moved radially outwardly towards the interiorwall 1873 of the elongate hollow cylinder 1855 of the housing 1851. Thisaspect of the connector mechanism 1853 is described in greater detailhereinafter. The connector mechanism 1853 also comprises ball bearings1875 to generate a positive lock engagement for fitting to anotherdevice such as an attachment device (not shown in FIG. 18A/18B), forexample. In this embodiment, the ball bearings 1875 are located adjacentthe pins 1869 and protrude from the inner face 1877 of the pincer rods1865.

The connector 1845 also comprises a pair of o-rings 1879 that provide asubstantially hermetic seal following connection with another devicesuch as an attachment device (not shown in FIG. 18A/18B), for example.The connector 1845 also comprises a bleeder valve 1843 that comprises afluid pressure indicator which aids an operator in ensuring that thecorrect/minimum fluid pressure/flow is present before disengaging afluid source 1847/connector 1845 from an attachment device (not shown inFIG. 18A/18B), thereby maintaining the fluid pressure/flow of fluidentering and exiting the connector and thus the attachment device (notshown in FIG. 18A/18B).

Referring now to FIG. 19A, there is shown a perspective cutaway view ofan assembly generally indicated 1881 formed according to an embodimentof the invention. The assembly 1981 comprising the attachment device1701 of FIGS. 17A-17G, and the connector 1845 of FIGS. 18A-18B forconnecting a fluid source 1847 to the attachment device 1701.

FIGS. 19A-19B show the assembly formed according to an embodiment of theinvention in an intermediate position in a perspective cutaway view anda side cutaway view, respectively. During operation, the femaleconnector 1845 (already attached to the fluid source 1847) is pushed onto the male attachment device 1701 in the direction indicated by arrow1983, such that the fluid inlet port 1707 of the attachment device 1701enters the hollow interior 1878 of the connector 1845 via the connecterexit hole 1862. In this intermediate position, the pincer rods 1865 ofthe connector mechanism 1853 are pushed radially outwardly by the wedgemembers 1863 towards the interior wall 1873 of the elongate hollowcylinder 1855 of the housing 1851 due to making contact with the outersurface of the fluid inlet port 1707, whereby the pincer rods 1865 hingeabout the pair of pins 1869 pins of the connector housing 1851.

As the connector 1845 is continued to be pushed by an operator in thedirection indicated by arrow 1983, it eventually reaches an engagedposition as shown in FIGS. 19C-19D. Here, the pincer rods 1865 hingeback radially inwardly to their original position away from the interiorwall 1873 of the elongate hollow cylinder 1855 of the housing 1851. Thewedge members 1863 are thus aligned with the pair of apertures 1827 sothat they can protrude therethrough and access the ball 1831. The effectof the wedge members 1863 contacting the ball 1831 is to move the ball1831 so that it compresses the spring 1835 and moves away from the valveorifice 1533 so as to unseal the valve and effect an open valve positionthus allowing passage of fluid therethrough.

At the same time, the connector 1845 engages the attachment device 1701by way of the connector mechanism 1853 comprising ball bearings 1875 togenerate a positive lock engagement with the groove 1837. The connector1845 and attachment device 1701 will be held in this engagement until asubstantial force in the direction opposite to that of arrow 1983 isapplied to overcome the resistance effected by the ball bearings 1875locking with the groove 1837. In the engaged position, the connector1845 also forms a substantially hermetic seal with the attachment device1701 due to the pair of o-rings 1879 of the connector 1845 tightlyabutting the exterior of the male attachment device 1701.

Referring now to FIGS. 20A-20B there is shown a perspective cutaway viewand side cutaway view of an attachment device 2001 formed according toan alternative embodiment of the invention, respectively. In thisembodiment, the attachment device 2001 comprises a fluid inlet port 2007that is detachably attached to the body 2003. The fluid inlet port 2007comprises an external screw thread 2087 at one end that is engageablewith an internal screw thread 2089 positioned on a face 2017 of thehollow cube 2013.

Referring now to FIGS. 21A-21B there is shown a perspective cutaway viewand side cutaway view of an attachment device 2101 formed according to afurther alternative embodiment of the invention, respectively. In thisembodiment, the attachment device 2101 comprising a body 2103 having afluid outlet port 2105; the body 2103 comprising external threading 2191at the fluid outlet port 2105 that is connectable to a pressureregulator 2193 (partially shown) having internal threading 2195.

Referring now to FIGS. 22A-22B there is shown a perspective cutaway viewand side cutaway view of an attachment device 2201 formed according to afurther alternative embodiment of the invention, respectively. In thisembodiment, the attachment device 2201 comprising a body 2203 having afluid outlet port 2205; the body 2203 comprising a push-fit mechanism2297 that is connectable to a pressure regulator (not shown) having acorresponding engagement mechanism.

Referring now to FIGS. 23A-23B there is shown a perspective cutaway viewand side cutaway view of an attachment device 2301 formed according to afurther alternative embodiment of the invention, respectively. In thisembodiment, the attachment device 2301 comprises an attachment devicemechanism 2309 which comprises a ball 2331 proximal the body 2303. Theball 2331 resides partially inside the body 2303 and partially protrudesoutwardly from the body 2303. The ball 2331 is moveable between a fluidstart flow position and fluid stop flow position by mechanically ormagnetically moving the ball 2331 towards the interior of the body 2303by way of a connector described hereinafter. The attachment devicemechanism 2309 comprises a spring 2399 for biasing the ball 2331 to thestop flow position; that is to close the seal to avoid escape of fluidfrom the attachment device 2301. The attachment device 2301 comprisessix attachment device coupling magnets 2398 arranged in a circular shapeon the body 2303 adjacent the ball 2331 which can be used to couple withmagnets from a connector, for instance.

Referring now to FIGS. 24A-24B there is shown a perspective cutaway viewand side cutaway view of a connector formed according to an alternativeembodiment of the invention, respectively.

The connector 2445 is for connecting a fluid source 2447 and anattachment device (not shown in FIG. 24A/24B), the connector beingattachable to the fluid source 2447 and an attachment device (not shownin FIG. 24A/24B). In this embodiment, the fluid source 2447 is a tubularfluid pipe 2449 and is attached to the connector 2445 by a hose barb(not shown). The connecter 2445 comprising a housing 2451 and aconnector mechanism 2453 for selectively starting and stopping the flowof fluid from the fluid source 2447 (tubular fluid pipe 2449) to theattachment device (not shown in FIG. 24A/24B).

In this embodiment, the housing 2451 is a short hollow cylinder 2455with the tubular fluid pipe 2449 attached at one end 2457 acting as afluid access end, wherein the opposite end 2459 comprises a connecterexit hole 2462 through which fluid can exit the connector towards andinto an attachment device (not shown in FIG. 24A/24B), for example. Thehousing 2451 has a hollow interior 2478.

The connecter mechanism 2453 comprises, in this embodiment, a push-rod2496. Of course, it will be understood, in other embodiments, theconnecter mechanism may comprise more than one push-rod. Morespecifically, in this embodiment, the push-rod 2496 is elongate in formand is centrally positioned and substantially longitudinally alignedwith a longitudinal direction of the short hollow cylinder 2455. Thepush-rod 2496 is suspended in position by an L-shape frame 2494 which isarranged orthogonally with respect to the push-rod 2496. The V-shapeframe 2494 is connected to and extend from two points on the interiorwall 2492 of the short hollow cylinder 2455 so that the apex 2490 of theV-shape frame 2494 is centrally radially positioned, and the push-rod2496 is suspended from the apex 2490. The push-rod 2496 has a concaveend 2484 adapted to receive a ball, for instance. This aspect of theconnector mechanism 2453 is described in greater detail hereinafter.

The connector mechanism 2453 also comprises six connector couplingmagnets 2488 arranged in a circular shape on the end 2486 of the shorthollow cylinder 2455 which can be used to couple with magnets from anattachment device (not shown in FIGS. 24A/24B), for instance.

The connector 2445 also comprises a bleeder valve 2443 that comprises afluid pressure indicator which aids an operator in ensuring that thecorrect/minimum fluid pressure/flow is present before disengaging afluid source 2447/connector 2445 from an attachment device (not shown inFIG. 24A/24B), thereby maintaining the fluid pressure/flow of fluidentering and exiting the connector and thus the attachment device (notshown in FIG. 24A/24B). The bleeder valve 2443 extends orthogonallyoutwardly from the short hollow cylinder 2455.

Referring now to FIGS. 25A-25B, there is shown a perspective cutawayview and side cutaway view of an assembly generally indicated 2581formed according to an embodiment of the invention, respectively. Theassembly 2581 comprising the attachment device 2301 of FIGS. 23A-23B,and the connector 2445 of FIGS. 24A-24B for connecting a fluid source2447 to the attachment device 2301. In this embodiment, the push-rod2496 of the connector mechanism 2453 having the concave end 2484mechanically pushes the ball 2331 (of the attachment device mechanism2309) inwardly towards the interior of the body 2303. The ball 2331therefore moves from a stop flow position to a start flow position.Although the movement of the ball 2331 in this embodiment is by amechanical force, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments thepush-rod 2496 may be formed from a magnetic material so that it maymagnetically repel the ball 2331 (of the attachment device mechanism2309) inwardly towards the interior of the body 2303. The attachmentdevice mechanism 2309 comprises a spring 2399 which is shown compressedby the ball 2331 in the start flow position so that fluid is able toflow from the fluid source 2447, to the connector 2451, and through tothe attachment device 2301. In this way, the connector mechanism 2453and attachment device mechanism 2309 are able to interconnect forenhanced performance.

The six attachment device coupling magnets 2398 arranged in a circularshape on the body 2303 of the attachment device 2301 mate with the sixconnector coupling magnets 2488 arranged in a circular shape on the end2486 of the connector 2445 to provide a strong detachably attachablecoupling of the connector 2445 and the attachment device 2301. In thisembodiment, the magnets 2398 and 2488 are neodymium magnets.

Referring now to FIGS. 26A-26B, there is shown a perspective cutawayview and side cutaway view of an assembly generally indicated 2681 in anengaged position formed according to an embodiment of the invention,respectively. The assembly 2681 is the same as that shown in FIGS.19C-19D comprising the attachment device 1701 of FIGS. 17A-17G, and theconnector 1845 of FIGS. 18A-18B, except the assembly 2681 furthercomprises the pressure regulator 700 of FIGS. 9-14. The externalthreading 530 of the pressure regulator 700 engages the internalthreading 1741 at the fluid outlet port 1705. During operation, in theopen valve/start flow state of the various components described herein,fluid can pass from the fluid source 2447, into the connector 1845,through to the attachment device 1701, and into the pressure regulator700.

Referring now to FIGS. 27A-27B, there is shown a perspective cutawayview and side cutaway view of an assembly generally indicated 2781 in anengaged position formed according to an embodiment of the invention,respectively. The assembly 2781 is the same as that shown in FIGS.26A-26B comprising the attachment device 1701 of FIGS. 17A-17G, theconnector 1845 of FIGS. 18A-18B, the pressure regulator 700 of FIGS.9-14, except the assembly 2781 further comprises the ventilator of FIGS.1-4. The lower internal threading 116 of the pressure regulator 700engages the threads 8 of the ventilator. During operation, in the openvalve/start flow state of the various components described herein, fluidcan pass from the fluid source 2447, into the connector 1845, through tothe attachment device 1701, through the pressure regulator 700, and intothe ventilator. The assembly 2781 is shown in the open flow state.

Referring now to FIGS. 27C-27D, there is shown a perspective cutawayview and side cutaway view of the assembly 2781 of FIGS. 27A-27B, butfurther comprising a second connector and second fluid source in anengaged position. The assembly 2781 is the same as that shown in FIGS.26A-26B comprising the attachment device 1701 of FIGS. 17A-17G, theconnector 1845 of FIGS. 18A-18B, the pressure regulator 700 of FIGS.9-14, except the assembly 2781 further comprises the ventilator of FIGS.1-4. The lower internal threading 116 of the pressure regulator 700engages the threads 8 of the ventilator. During operation, in the openvalve/start flow state of the various components described herein, fluidcan pass from the fluid source 2447, into the connector 1845, through tothe attachment device 1701, through the pressure regulator 700, and intothe ventilator 2. The assembly 2781 is shown in the open flow state.

Referring now to FIGS. 27C-27D is a perspective cutaway view and sideview, respectively, of the assembly of FIG. 27A further comprising asecond connector 1845B and second fluid source 2447 in an engagedposition. The second connector is engaged with one of the other fluidinlet ports 1707. The connector mechanism 1853 and 1853B and theattachment device mechanism 2309 and 2309B are in the open state/startflow state.

Referring now to FIGS. 27E and 27F is a perspective cutaway view andside view, respectively, following disconnection of the original (first)connector 1845 and first fluid source 2447. Here, it can be seen thatthe second connector mechanism 1853B and the second attachment devicemechanism 1709B remain in the open state/start flow state, while thefirst attachment device mechanism 1709 reverts to the closed state/stopflow state because valve orifice 1733 is sealed shut by each ball 1731,thereby completing the switch/transfer/transition from one fluid line2447 to a second fluid line 2447B, without compromising on the pressureand flow speed of the fluid reaching the ventilator 2.

Referring now to FIG. 28, there is shown a flow diagram of the methodaccording to the invention. The flow diagram comprises steps S1-S15 ofthe method. The flow diagram details a method of switching one fluidsource with another fluid source and maintaining continuous fluid flowto a respirator or ventilator, comprising the steps of:

S1—providing a respirator or ventilator;S2—providing one fluid source;S3—attaching said one fluid source to one connector, said one connectercomprising one housing and one connector mechanism for selectivelystarting and stopping the flow of fluid;S4—providing an attachment device comprising a body having a fluidoutlet port and at least two fluid inlet ports; wherein each fluid inletport is connectable to a respective fluid source; wherein each fluidinlet port is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet port; andwherein each fluid inlet port comprises an attachment device mechanismfor selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid;S5—providing a pressure regulator for regulating fluid pressure andfluid flow speed;S6—connecting the fluid outlet port of the attachment device to thepressure regulator;S7—connecting the pressure regulator to the respirator or ventilator;S8—connecting said one connector to one fluid inlet port of theattachment device;S9—selectively starting flow of fluid from said one fluid source to therespirator or ventilator using said one connector mechanism and oneattachment device mechanism;S10—providing another fluid source;S11—attaching said another fluid source to another connector, saidanother connecter comprising another housing and another connectormechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid;S12—connecting said another connector to another fluid inlet port of theattachment device;S13—selectively starting flow of fluid from said another fluid source tothe respirator or ventilator using said another connector mechanism andanother attachment device mechanism;S14—selectively stopping flow of fluid from said one fluid source to therespirator or ventilator using said one connector mechanism and said oneattachment device mechanism; andS15—disconnecting said one connector from said one fluid inlet port ofthe attachment device.

In relation to the assembly 2781 shown in FIGS. 27A-27B, steps S1-S9relate to FIGS. 27A-27B; steps S10-S13 relate to FIGS. 27C-27D, andsteps S14-S15 relate to FIGS. 27E-27F.

Referring now to FIGS. 29A-29G, there is shown various views of areservoir bag 2962 and valve apparatus 2960 formed according to anembodiment of the invention. The reservoir bag 2962 is made from aflexible and non-permeable material. Of course, it will be appreciatedthat in other embodiments, the bag may be non-flexible. The valveapparatus 2960 is connected to the reservoir bag 2962 by a screw fitting2958 so that there is fluid communication between the reservoir bag 2962and the valve apparatus 2960. The valve apparatus 2960 comprises a firstone-way valve 2956 that fluidly connects the reservoir bag 2962 and thevalve apparatus 2960, such that fluid from the reservoir bag 2962 canpass only in one direction from the reservoir bag 2962 to the valveapparatus 2960. The valve apparatus 2960 also comprises a second one-wayvalve 2954 so that fluid can only pass in one direction from inside 2952of the valve apparatus 2960 to outside 2950 of the valve apparatus 2960.The second one-way valve 2954 acts as an exhaust valve. In thisembodiment, the reservoir bag 2962 is filled with oxygen. Inembodiments, it may be continually re-filled with oxygen to maintain aconstant supply to a patient, for instance.

Referring now to FIGS. 30A-30B, there is shown a perspective cutawayview and side cutaway view of an assembly generally indicated 3081 in anengaged position formed according to an embodiment of the invention,respectively. The assembly 3081 is the same as that shown in FIGS.27A-27F comprising the attachment device 1701 of FIGS. 17A-17G, theconnector 1845 of FIGS. 18A-18B, the pressure regulator 700 of FIGS.9-14, the ventilator of FIGS. 1-4, except the assembly 3081 furthercomprises the reservoir bag 2962 and valve apparatus 2960 of FIGS.29A-29G. The ambient fluid aperture 4 of the ventilator 2 ishermetically connected to the valve apparatus 2960. During operation, inthe open valve/start flow state of the various components describedherein, fluid can pass from the fluid source 2447, into the connector1845, through to the attachment device 1701, through the pressureregulator 700, and into the ventilator 2. The assembly 3081 is shown inthe open flow state. When a patient inhales through the ventilator 2,oxygen from the reservoir bag 2962 is entrained in thepressure-controlled oxygen flow in the venturi instead of theentrainment of ambient fluid, as described in earlier embodiments of theventilator 2. In this way, the patient can receive a 100% oxygen needbased on their needs.

Clauses

It will be understood that the following clauses form part of thespecification and disclosure of the invention defined herein. Moreparticularly, the invention herein may be defined by the combination ofthe features of the clauses as detailed below, and such clauses may beutilized to amend the combination of the features within the claims ofthis application.

1. A Fluid Mixing Apparatus such as a Ventilator including:

-   -   a venturi nozzle for flow of a pressure-controlled fluid;    -   an ambient fluid aperture in fluid communication with the        venturi nozzle;    -   a fluid port;    -   a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with the        fluid port; and    -   a valve moveable relative to the venturi nozzle between a start        flow position and a stop flow position;    -   where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that        fluid forced into the fluid port actuates the valve relative to        the venturi nozzle; and    -   where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that        fluid withdrawn from the fluid port actuates the valve relative        to the venturi nozzle.

2. An apparatus suitable for a respirator, including:

-   -   a venturi nozzle for flow of a pressure-controlled fluid;    -   an ambient fluid aperture in fluid communication with the        venturi nozzle;    -   a fluid port;    -   a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with the        fluid port; and    -   a valve moveable relative to the venturi nozzle between a start        flow position and a stop flow position;    -   where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that        fluid forced into the fluid port actuates the valve relative to        the venturi nozzle; and    -   where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that        fluid withdrawn from the fluid port actuates the valve relative        to the venturi nozzle.

3. The apparatus of Clause 1 or Clause 2, where the pressure forcemultiplier is configured such that fluid forced into the fluid portactuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle to a stop flowposition; and

where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that fluidwithdrawn from the fluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturinozzle to a start flow position.

4. The apparatus of Clause 1 or Clause 2, where the pressure forcemultiplier is configured such that fluid forced into the fluid portactuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle to a start flowposition; and

where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that fluidwithdrawn from the fluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturinozzle to a stop flow position.

5. The apparatus of Clause 1 or Clause 2, where the pressure forcemultiplier is configured such that fluid forced into the fluid portactuates the valve relative to the venturi nozzle to an active flowposition between the start flow position and stop flow position; and

where the pressure force multiplier is configured such that fluidwithdrawn from the fluid port actuates the valve relative to the venturinozzle to an active flow position between the start flow position andstop flow position.

6. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 5, where a pressure-controlledfluid includes oxygen, an ambient fluid includes ambient air, fluidforced into the fluid port includes air exhaled into an air port, andfluid withdrawn from the fluid port includes air inhaled from an airport.

7. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 5, where the pressure forcemultiplier is positioned between the venturi nozzle and the fluid port.

8. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 5, where the venturi nozzle ispositioned between the pressure force multiplier and the fluid port.

9. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 5, where the venturi nozzle ispositioned between the ambient fluid aperture and the fluid port.

10. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 9, including a pressureregulator for regulating the flow of a pressure-controlled fluid, thepressure regulator including:

a housing formed to include a bore therein;

a piston moveably disposed within the bore, where the piston includes anannular lip adjacent a first end thereof;

a spring disposed within the bore, and including a first end and asecond end;

an adjustment cap moveably disposed in the bore, where the adjustmentcap is formed to include a plurality of key slots formed therein;

where:

the first end of the spring is in physical contact with the annular lip;and

the second end of the spring is in physical contact with the adjustmentcap where:

-   -   rotating the adjustment cap in a first direction causes the        adjustment cap to compress the first spring;    -   rotating the adjustment cap in a second and opposite direction        causes the adjustment cap to decompress the spring;    -   rotating the adjustment cap in the first direction increases the        output pressure of the pressure regulator;    -   rotating the adjustment cap in the second direction decreases        the output pressure of the pressure regulator;        the bore is defined by a cylindrical wall;        the cylindrical wall is formed to include first threading        therein;        the adjustment cap is formed to include second threading formed        on a periphery thereof;        the second threading is configured to mesh with the first        threading.

11. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 10, where the pressure forcemultiplier includes a diaphragm.

12. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 11, where the pressure forcemultiplier is bi-stable.

13. The apparatus of any of Clauses 3 to 12, where the pressure forcemultiplier is biased toward the stop flow position.

14. The apparatus of any of Clauses 3 to 12, where the pressure forcemultiplier is biased toward the start flow position.

15. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 10, where the pressure forcemultiplier includes at least one flap.

16. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 15, where the apparatus issolely mechanical.

17. The apparatus of any of Clauses 3 to 16, where in the start flowposition or an active flow position a mixture of pressure-controlledfluid and ambient fluid is allowed to flow to the fluid port.

18. The apparatus of Clause 17, where the flow of the mixture ismodulated in real-time.

19. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 18, where the valve includes aflange that is connected to the pressure force multiplier.

20. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 18, where the valve includes astem with a tapered end, where the tapered end enters a venturi openingin the venturi nozzle in the stop position to substantially close theventuri opening.

21. The apparatus of Clause 20, where the stem is connected to thepressure force multiplier.

22. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 18, where the valve includes aswitch.

23. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 18, where the valve includes aflap valve.

24. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 18, where the valve includes aspring-loaded shuttle system.

25. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 18, where the valve isslidable.

26. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 25, where the valve is solelymechanical.

27. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 26, where the ambient fluidaperture includes a fluid exhaust.

28. The apparatus of Clause 27, where the valve is configured to beactuated relative to the venturi nozzle while simultaneously opening thefluid exhaust.

29. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 28, further including at leastone filter detachably connected to the ambient fluid aperture.

30. The apparatus of Clause 29, where the at least one filter includespores of about 3 μm.

31. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 30, further including arespirator.

32. The apparatus of Clause 31, where the respirator is in fluidcommunication with the fluid port.

33. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 32, where the fluid is aliquid.

34. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 33, where the apparatus isinjection molded.

35. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 33, where the apparatus is 3Dprinted.

36. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 35, where apparatus isconfigured to be mobile.

37. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 36, where apparatus isconfigured to be re-usable.

38. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 37 for use in controlling theflow of air and/or oxygen into a respirator.

39. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 38 for use in controlling theflow of scrubbed air and/or oxygen into a respirator.

40. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 39 for use in treating arespiratory condition.

41. The apparatus of any of Clauses 1 to 40 for use in treatingCOVID-19.

42. A method of using an apparatus suitable for a respirator, the methodincluding:

providing a source of pressure-controlled fluid;

providing an apparatus suitable for a respirator, including:

-   -   a venturi nozzle for receiving a flow of the pressure-controlled        fluid;    -   an ambient fluid aperture in fluid communication with the        venturi nozzle;    -   a fluid port;    -   a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with the        fluid port; and    -   a valve moveable relative to the venturi nozzle between a start        flow position, in which the pressure-controlled fluid mixes with        the ambient fluid, and a stop flow position;

actuating the valve relative to the venturi nozzle in response to fluidforced into the fluid port; and

actuating the valve relative to the venturi nozzle in response to fluidwithdrawn from the fluid port.

43. The method of Clause 42, where the apparatus is solely mechanical.

44. The method of Clause 42 or Clause 43, further including adjustingthe pressure of the pressure-controlled fluid.

45. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 44, where the method is for usingthe apparatus in treating a living patient who inhales and exhalesbreath, where the pressure-controlled fluid is pressure-controlledoxygen, and where the fluid is air, the method including:

-   -   connecting the apparatus to a respirator;    -   placing the respirator in gaseous communication with the patient        and with the source of pressure-controlled oxygen;    -   in response to inhalation by the patient, starting oxygen flow        into the respirator, mixing the oxygen with ambient air to        generate enriched air, and delivering the enriched air to the        patient;    -   in response to exhalation by the patient, stopping oxygen flow        into the respirator, and exhausting exhalation air from the        respirator.

46. The method of Clause 45, where the enriched air has an FiO2 of atleast 26%.

47. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 44, where the method is for usingthe apparatus in treating a living patient who inhales and exhalesbreath, where the pressure-controlled fluid is pressure-controlledfiltered air, and where the fluid is air, the method including:

-   -   connecting the apparatus to a respirator;    -   placing the respirator in gaseous communication with the patient        and with the source of pressure-controlled filtered air;    -   in response to inhalation by the patient, starting oxygen flow        into the respirator, mixing the pressure-controlled filtered air        with ambient air to generate scrubbed air, and delivering the        scrubbed air to the patient;    -   in response to exhalation by the patient, stopping oxygen flow        into the respirator, and exhausting exhalation air from the        respirator.

48. The method of Clause 47, where the scrubbed air has an FiO2 of atleast 26%.

49. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 48, further including walkingand/or running while utilizing the apparatus and a respirator.

50. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 49, further including initiatinguse of the apparatus and respirator to treat allergies.

51. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 49, further including initiatinguse of the apparatus and respirator to treat ARDS.

52. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 49, further including initiatinguse of the apparatus and respirator to treat sleep apnea.

53. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 49, further including initiatinguse of the apparatus and respirator to treat COPD.

54. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 49, further including initiatinguse of the apparatus and respirator to treat infection by the COVID-19virus.

55. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 54, further including filteringthe ambient air.

56. The method of any of Clauses 42 to 55, further including filteringexhaled breath from the patient.

57. A pressure force multiplier including a sealed end and an open end,where the sealed end is in fluid communication with a valve to define afixed volume between the sealed end and the valve, where the pressureforce multiplier is configured such that a change in pressure in theopen end causes a change in pressure in the sealed end which actuatesthe valve.

58. The pressure force multiplier of Clause 57, configured such that anegative pressure in the open end causes a reduction in pressure in thesealed end which actuates the valve.

59. The pressure force multiplier of Clause 57, configured such that apositive pressure in the open end causes an increase in pressure in thesealed end which actuates the valve.

60. The pressure force multiplier of any of Clauses 57 to 59, where theactuation of the valve activates a humidifier.

61. The pressure force multiplier of any of Clauses 57 to 59, where theactuation of the valve generates a change in a visual indicator.

62. The pressure force multiplier of Clause 61, where the change invisual indicator represents a change of pressure in the open end.

63. The pressure force multiplier of Clause 62, where the change ofpressure in the open end is caused by inhalation and/or exhalation of apatient.

64. An attachment device comprising a body having a fluid outlet portand at least two fluid inlet ports;

-   -   wherein each fluid inlet port is connectable to a respective        fluid source;    -   wherein each fluid inlet port is in fluid communication with the        fluid outlet port; and    -   wherein each fluid inlet port comprises an attachment device        mechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow of        fluid from the respective fluid source to the fluid outlet port.

65. The attachment device of Clause 64, wherein the attachment devicemechanism comprises a valve having a ball moveable between an open valveand closed valve position.

66. The attachment device of Clause 65, wherein the valve comprises aspring for biasing the ball to the closed valve position.

67. The attachment device of any of Clauses 65 to 66, wherein the atleast two fluid inlet ports each comprise at least two aperturesproviding access to the ball.

68. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 67, wherein each fluidinlet port comprises an arm extending from the body.

69. The attachment device of Clause 68, wherein the arm comprises agroove about its periphery.

70. The attachment device of Clause 64, wherein the attachment devicemechanism comprises a medical valve having a valve stem and a valveseat, wherein the valve seat seals a valve orifice in a closed valveposition, and the valve seat unseals the valve orifice in an open valveposition.

71. The attachment device of Clause 70, wherein the medical valve ismoveable by a mechanical force or a magnetic force.

72. The attachment device of Clause 64, wherein the attachment devicemechanism comprises a ball proximal the body, wherein the ball ismoveable between a fluid start flow position and fluid stop flowposition by mechanically or magnetically moving the ball towards theinterior of the body.

73. The attachment device of Clause 72, wherein the attachment devicemechanism comprises a spring for biasing the ball to the stop flowposition.

74. The attachment device of Clause 64, wherein the attachment devicemechanism comprises a domed-cylinder proximal the body, wherein thedomed-cylinder is moveable between a fluid start flow and fluid stopflow position by mechanically or magnetically moving the domed-cylindertowards the interior of the body.

75. The attachment device of Clause 74, wherein the attachment devicemechanism comprises a spring for biasing the domed-cylinder to the stopflow position.

76. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 75, wherein the bodycomprises internal threading at the fluid outlet port that isconnectable to a pressure regulator having external threading.

77. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 75, wherein the bodycomprises external threading at the fluid outlet port that isconnectable to a pressure regulator having internal threading.

78. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 75, wherein the bodycomprises a push-fit mechanism.

79. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 78, wherein at leastone fluid inlet port is detachably attached to the body.

80. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 79, wherein therespective fluid source is a pressure-controlled oxygen source.

81. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 79, wherein therespective fluid source is a ventilator.

82. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 81, comprising ableeder valve.

83. The attachment device of Clause 82, wherein the bleeder valvecomprises a fluid pressure indicator.

84. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 83 for use in amedical application.

85. The attachment device of any of Clauses 64 to 83 for use in at leastone of spooling up a turbocharger, changing cam timing in an engine,operating as an injector or a valve, generating downforce in a carchassis, dispersion of carbon dioxide, controlling humidity by atomizingwater, and nutrient distribution.

86. A connector for connecting a fluid source and an attachment device,the connector being attachable to a fluid source and an attachmentdevice, and the connecter comprising a housing and a connector mechanismfor selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid from the fluidsource to the attachment device.

87. The connector of Clause 86, wherein the connecter mechanismcomprises at least two couplers each having a wedge member.

88. The connector of Clause 87, wherein the at least two couplers arepincer rods each having the wedge member disposed at one end thereof.

89. The connector of claim 87, wherein the at least two couplers arehingeably disposed in the housing.

90. The connector of claim 89, wherein the at least two couplers arehingeably disposed by a pin in the housing.

91. The connector of Clause 86, wherein the connecter mechanismcomprises ball bearings to generate a positive lock engagement.

92. The connector of Clause 86, wherein the connecter mechanismcomprises a magnet.

93. The connector of any of Clauses 86 to 92, comprising a couplingmagnet for connecting a fluid source and an attachment device.

94. The connector of any of Clauses 86 to 93, wherein the connectorcomprises a bleeder valve.

95. The connector of Clause 94, wherein the bleeder valve comprises afluid pressure indicator.

96. An assembly comprising an attachment device, and a connector forconnecting a fluid source to the attachment device;

-   -   wherein the attachment device comprising a body having a fluid        outlet port and at least two fluid inlet ports;        -   wherein each fluid inlet port is connectable to a respective            fluid source;        -   wherein each fluid inlet port is in fluid communication with            the fluid outlet port; and        -   wherein each fluid inlet port comprises an attachment device            mechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow of            fluid from the respective fluid source to the fluid outlet            port; and    -   wherein the connector being attachable to a fluid source and the        attachment device, the connecter comprising a housing and a        connector mechanism for selectively starting and stopping the        flow of fluid from the fluid source to the attachment device.

97. The assembly of Clause 96, further comprising a pressure regulatorfor regulating fluid pressure and fluid flow speed.

98. The assembly of Clause 97, wherein the pressure regulator isconnectable to the fluid outlet port.

99. The assembly of Clause 97, wherein the pressure regulator comprisesexternal threading that is connectable to internal threading of thefluid outlet port.

100. The assembly of Clause 97, wherein the pressure regulator comprisesinternal threading that is connectable to external threading of thefluid outlet port.

101. The assembly of Clause 96, wherein the connector is connected tothe attachment device by at least one selected from the group comprisinga push-fit mechanism, bayonet fastening mechanism, and a twist-clickseal.

102. The assembly of Clause 97, wherein the pressure regulatorcomprises:

a housing formed to include a bore therein;

a piston moveably disposed within said bore, wherein said pistoncomprises an annular lip adjacent a first end thereof;

a pressure regulator spring disposed within said bore, and comprising afirst end and a second end; and

an adjustment cap moveably disposed in said bore, wherein saidadjustment cap is formed to include a plurality of key slots formedtherein;

wherein:

said first end of said pressure regulator spring is in physical contactwith said annular lip; and

said second end of said pressure regulator spring is in physical contactwith said adjustment cap wherein:

rotating said adjustment cap in a first direction causes said adjustmentcap to compress said pressure regulator spring;

rotating said adjustment cap in a second and opposite direction causessaid adjustment cap to decompress said pressure regulator spring;

rotating said adjustment cap in said first direction increases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator;

rotating said adjustment cap in said second direction decreases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator;

said bore is defined by a cylindrical wall;

said cylindrical wall is formed to include a first threading therein;

said adjustment cap is formed to include a second threading formed on aperiphery thereof; and

said second threading is configured to mesh with said first threading.

103. The assembly of Clause 97, further comprising a ventilatorconnectable to the airway of a living patient, the ventilatorcomprising:

-   -   a venturi, comprising a throat;    -   a venturi nozzle;    -   a venturi opening in the venturi nozzle through which        pressure-controlled oxygen flows outward, wherein said venturi        opening opens to said throat, and wherein said venturi opening        and said throat are substantially longitudinally aligned;    -   an ambient air aperture in fluid communication with said venturi        nozzle and with ambient air;    -   a fluid port in fluid communication with the airway of the        patient;    -   a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with said        fluid port, wherein said pressure force multiplier includes at        least one opening defined therethrough; said pressure force        multiplier comprising at least one flap movable between an open        position and a closed position relative to said at least one        opening; and    -   a valve moveable along an axis of movement relative to said        venturi opening in said venturi nozzle between a start flow        position that causes entrainment of the ambient air by the flow        of pressure-controlled oxygen within said throat, and a stop        flow position that ceases entrainment of the ambient air by the        flow of pressure-controlled oxygen within said throat;    -   wherein said pressure force multiplier is configured wherein        exhalation of the patient into said fluid port actuates said        valve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi        nozzle to close said venturi nozzle;    -   wherein said pressure force multiplier is configured wherein        inhalation of the patient through said fluid port actuates said        valve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi        nozzle; and    -   wherein said axis of movement of said valve is substantially        longitudinally aligned with a longitudinal direction of said        throat.

103. The assembly of Clause 102, wherein the pressure regulatorcomprises:

a housing formed to include a bore therein;

a piston moveably disposed within said bore, wherein said pistoncomprises an annular lip adjacent a first end thereof;

a pressure regulator spring disposed within said bore, and comprising afirst end and a second end; and

an adjustment cap moveably disposed in said bore, wherein saidadjustment cap is formed to include a plurality of key slots formedtherein;

wherein:

said first end of said pressure regulator spring is in physical contactwith said annular lip; and

said second end of said pressure regulator spring is in physical contactwith said adjustment cap wherein:

rotating said adjustment cap in a first direction causes said adjustmentcap to compress said pressure regulator spring;

rotating said adjustment cap in a second and opposite direction causessaid adjustment cap to decompress said pressure regulator spring;

rotating said adjustment cap in said first direction increases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator;

rotating said adjustment cap in said second direction decreases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator;

said bore is defined by a cylindrical wall;

said cylindrical wall is formed to include a first threading therein;

said adjustment cap is formed to include a second threading formed on aperiphery thereof;

and said second threading is configured to mesh with said firstthreading.

104. The assembly of Clause 101, wherein the pressure regulator isconnectable to the ventilator.

105. The assembly of Clause 96, further comprising an apparatus suitablefor use with a respirator, comprising:

-   -   a venturi, comprising:        -   a throat,        -   a venturi nozzle, and;        -   a venturi opening in the venturi nozzle through which            pressure-controlled fluid flows outward, wherein said            venturi opening opens to said throat, and wherein said            venturi opening and said throat are substantially            longitudinally aligned;    -   an ambient fluid aperture in fluid communication with said        venturi nozzle and with an ambient fluid;    -   a fluid port;    -   a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with said        fluid port; and a valve moveable along an axis of movement        relative to said venturi opening in said venturi nozzle between        a start flow position that causes entrainment of the ambient        fluid by the flow of pressure-controlled fluid within said        throat, and a stop flow position that ceases entrainment of the        ambient fluid by the flow of pressure-controlled fluid within        said throat;    -   wherein said pressure force multiplier is configured such that        fluid forced into said fluid port actuates said valve along said        axis of movement relative to said venturi nozzle to close said        venturi nozzle;    -   wherein said pressure force multiplier is configured such that        fluid withdrawn from said fluid port actuates said valve along        said axis of movement relative to said venturi nozzle;

wherein said axis of movement of said valve is substantiallylongitudinally aligned with a longitudinal direction of said throat; and

wherein said pressure force multiplier is positioned between saidventuri nozzle and said fluid port.

106. The assembly of Clause 105, wherein the pressure regulatorcomprises:

a housing formed to include a bore therein;

a piston moveably disposed within said bore, wherein said pistoncomprises an annular lip adjacent a first end thereof;

a pressure regulator spring disposed within said bore, and comprising afirst end and a second end; and

an adjustment cap moveably disposed in said bore, wherein saidadjustment cap is formed to include a plurality of key slots formedtherein;

wherein:

said first end of said pressure regulator spring is in physical contactwith said annular lip; and

said second end of said pressure regulator spring is in physical contactwith said adjustment cap wherein:

rotating said adjustment cap in a first direction causes said adjustmentcap to compress said pressure regulator spring;

rotating said adjustment cap in a second and opposite direction causessaid adjustment cap to decompress said pressure regulator spring;

rotating said adjustment cap in said first direction increases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator;

rotating said adjustment cap in said second direction decreases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator;

said bore is defined by a cylindrical wall;

said cylindrical wall is formed to include a first threading therein;

said adjustment cap is formed to include a second threading formed on aperiphery thereof; and

said second threading is configured to mesh with said first threading.

107. The assembly of Clause 106, wherein the pressure regulator isconnectable to the apparatus.

108. The assembly of Clause 103, further comprising an oxygen-filledreservoir.

109. The assembly of Clause 108, wherein the oxygen-filled reservoir isconnected to the ventilator.

110. The assembly of Clause 108, wherein the ventilator comprises aone-way exhaust valve and a one-way reservoir valve, and wherein theone-way reservoir valve fluidly connects the oxygen-filled reservoir tothe ventilator.

111. The assembly of Clause 110, wherein the one-way exhaust valve andthe one-way reservoir valve are positioned at the ambient air apertureof the ventilator.

112. The assembly of Clause 96, wherein the attachment device mechanismand the connector mechanism are interconnected for selectively startingand stopping the flow of fluid from the fluid source to the attachmentdevice.

113. The assembly of Clause 96, further comprising a high flow nasalcanula.

114. A method of switching one fluid source with another fluid sourceand maintaining continuous fluid flow to a respirator or ventilator,comprising the steps of:

-   -   providing a respirator or ventilator;    -   providing one fluid source;    -   attaching said one fluid source to one connector, said one        connecter comprising one housing and one connector mechanism for        selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid;    -   providing an attachment device comprising a body having a fluid        outlet port and at least two fluid inlet ports;        -   wherein each fluid inlet port is connectable to a respective            fluid source;        -   wherein each fluid inlet port is in fluid communication with            the fluid outlet port; and        -   wherein each fluid inlet port comprises an attachment device            mechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow of            fluid;    -   providing a pressure regulator for regulating fluid pressure and        fluid flow speed;    -   connecting the fluid outlet port of the attachment device to the        pressure regulator;    -   connecting the pressure regulator to the respirator or        ventilator;    -   connecting said one connector to one fluid inlet port of the        attachment device;    -   selectively starting flow of fluid from said one fluid source to        the respirator or ventilator using said one connector mechanism        and one attachment device mechanism;    -   providing another fluid source;    -   attaching said another fluid source to another connector, said        another connecter comprising another housing and another        connector mechanism for selectively starting and stopping the        flow of fluid;    -   connecting said another connector to another fluid inlet port of        the attachment device;    -   selectively starting flow of fluid from said another fluid        source to the respirator or ventilator using said another        connector mechanism and another attachment device mechanism;    -   selectively stopping flow of fluid from said one fluid source to        the respirator or ventilator using said one connector mechanism        and said one attachment device mechanism; and    -   disconnecting said one connector from said one fluid inlet port        of the attachment device.

115. The method of claim 114, wherein at least one of said attachmentdevice, said one connector and said another connector comprises ableeder valve having a fluid pressure indicator, the method furthercomprising the step of checking the fluid pressure indicator before thesteps of selectively stopping flow of fluid from said one fluid sourceand disconnecting said one connector from said one fluid inlet port ofthe attachment device.

116. The method of claim 114, wherein the step of providing a pressureregulator for regulating fluid pressure and fluid flow speed comprisesproviding a pressure regulator that comprises:

a housing formed to include a bore therein;

a piston moveably disposed within said bore, wherein said pistoncomprises an annular lip adjacent a first end thereof;

a pressure regulator spring disposed within said bore, and comprising afirst end and a second end; and

an adjustment cap moveably disposed in said bore, wherein saidadjustment cap is formed to include a plurality of key slots formedtherein;

wherein:

said first end of said pressure regulator spring is in physical contactwith said annular lip; and

said second end of said pressure regulator spring is in physical contactwith said adjustment cap wherein:

rotating said adjustment cap in a first direction causes said adjustmentcap to compress said pressure regulator spring;

rotating said adjustment cap in a second and opposite direction causessaid adjustment cap to decompress said pressure regulator spring;

rotating said adjustment cap in said first direction increases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator;

rotating said adjustment cap in said second direction decreases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator;

said bore is defined by a cylindrical wall;

said cylindrical wall is formed to include a first threading therein;

said adjustment cap is formed to include a second threading formed on aperiphery thereof; and

said second threading is configured to mesh with said first threading.

117. The method of claim 114, wherein the step of providing a ventilatorcomprises providing a ventilator that is connectable to the airway of aliving patient, the ventilator comprising:

-   -   a venturi, comprising a throat;    -   a venturi nozzle;    -   a venturi opening in the venturi nozzle through which        pressure-controlled oxygen flows outward, wherein said venturi        opening opens to said throat, and wherein said venturi opening        and said throat are substantially longitudinally aligned;    -   an ambient air aperture in fluid communication with said venturi        nozzle and with ambient air;    -   a fluid port in fluid communication with the airway of the        patient;    -   a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with said        fluid port, wherein said pressure force multiplier includes at        least one opening defined therethrough; said pressure force        multiplier comprising at least one flap movable between an open        position and a closed position relative to said at least one        opening; and    -   a valve moveable along an axis of movement relative to said        venturi opening in said venturi nozzle between a start flow        position that causes entrainment of the ambient air by the flow        of pressure-controlled oxygen within said throat, and a stop        flow position that ceases entrainment of the ambient air by the        flow of pressure-controlled oxygen within said throat;    -   wherein said pressure force multiplier is configured wherein        exhalation of the patient into said fluid port actuates said        valve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi        nozzle to close said venturi nozzle;    -   wherein said pressure force multiplier is configured wherein        inhalation of the patient through said fluid port actuates said        valve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi        nozzle; and    -   wherein said axis of movement of said valve is substantially        longitudinally aligned with a longitudinal direction of said        throat.

118. The method of claim 114 for use in transport ventilation.

As used in this document, both in the description and in the claims, andas customarily used in the art, the words “substantially,”“approximately,” and similar terms of approximation are used to accountfor manufacturing tolerances, manufacturing variations, andmanufacturing imprecisions that are inescapable parts of fabricating anymechanism or structure in the physical world.

While the invention has been described in detail, it will be apparent toone skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can bemade and equivalents employed, without departing from the presentinvention. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited tothe details of construction, the arrangements of components, and/or themethod set forth in the above description or illustrated in thedrawings. Statements in the abstract of this document, and any summarystatements in this document, are merely exemplary; they are not, andcannot be interpreted as, limiting the scope of the claims. Further, thefigures are merely exemplary and not limiting. Topical headings andsubheadings are for the convenience of the reader only. They should notand cannot be construed to have any substantive significance, meaning orinterpretation, and should not and cannot be deemed to indicate that allof the information relating to any particular topic is to be found underor limited to any particular heading or subheading. The purpose of theAbstract of this document is to enable the U.S. Patent and TrademarkOffice, as well as readers who are not familiar with patent or legalterms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection thenature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. TheAbstract is not intended to define the invention, nor is it intended tolimit to the scope of the invention. The purpose of the clauses of thisdocument is to provide support for claims in any later-file foreignpatent applications claiming priority to this document. The clauses arenot intended to define the invention, nor are they intended to limit tothe scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to berestricted or limited except in accordance with the following claims andtheir legal equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. An attachment device comprising a body having afluid outlet port and at least two fluid inlet ports; wherein each fluidinlet port is connectable to a respective fluid source; wherein eachfluid inlet port is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet port;and wherein each fluid inlet port comprises an attachment devicemechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid fromthe respective fluid source to the fluid outlet port.
 2. The attachmentdevice of claim 1, wherein the attachment device mechanism comprises avalve having a ball moveable between an open valve and closed valveposition.
 3. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein the valvecomprises a spring for biasing the ball to the closed valve position. 4.The attachment device of claim 2, wherein the at least two fluid inletports each comprise at least two apertures providing access to the ball.5. The attachment device of claim 4, wherein each fluid inlet portcomprises an arm having at least one groove, said arm extending from thebody.
 6. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the body comprisesinternal threading at the fluid outlet port that is connectable to apressure regulator having external threading.
 7. The attachment deviceof claim 1, wherein the body comprises external threading at the fluidoutlet port that is connectable to a pressure regulator having internalthreading.
 8. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the bodycomprises a push-fit mechanism.
 9. The attachment device of claim 1,wherein at least one fluid inlet port is detachably attached to thebody.
 10. The attachment device of claim 1 for use in a medicalapplication.
 11. The attachment device of claim 1 for use in at leastone of spooling up a turbocharger, changing cam timing in an engine,operating as an injector or a valve, generating downforce in a carchassis, dispersion of carbon dioxide, controlling humidity by atomizingwater, and nutrient distribution.
 12. A connector for connecting a fluidsource and an attachment device, the connector being attachable to afluid source and an attachment device, and the connecter comprising ahousing and a connector mechanism for selectively starting and stoppingthe flow of fluid from the fluid source to the attachment device. 13.The connector of claim 12, wherein the connecter mechanism comprises atleast two couplers each having a wedge member, wherein said at least twocouplers are hingeably disposed in the housing.
 14. The connector ofclaim 13, wherein the at least two couplers are pincer rods each havingthe wedge member disposed at one end thereof.
 15. The connector of claim12, wherein the connecter mechanism comprises a magnet.
 16. Theconnector of claim 12, comprising a coupling magnet for connecting afluid source and an attachment device.
 17. An assembly comprising anattachment device, and a connector for connecting a fluid source to theattachment device; wherein the attachment device comprising a bodyhaving a fluid outlet port and at least two fluid inlet ports; whereineach fluid inlet port is connectable to a respective fluid source;wherein each fluid inlet port is in fluid communication with the fluidoutlet port; and wherein each fluid inlet port comprises an attachmentdevice mechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluidfrom the respective fluid source to the fluid outlet port; and whereinthe connector being attachable to a fluid source and the attachmentdevice, the connecter comprising a housing and a connector mechanism forselectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid from the fluidsource to the attachment device.
 18. The assembly of claim 17, furthercomprising a pressure regulator for regulating fluid pressure and fluidflow speed.
 19. The assembly of claim 18, wherein the pressure regulatorcomprises external threading that is connectable to internal threadingof the fluid outlet port.
 20. The assembly of claim 18, wherein thepressure regulator comprises internal threading that is connectable toexternal threading of the fluid outlet port.
 21. The assembly of claim18, wherein the pressure regulator comprises: a housing formed toinclude a bore therein; a piston moveably disposed within said bore,wherein said piston comprises an annular lip adjacent a first endthereof; a pressure regulator spring disposed within said bore, andcomprising a first end and a second end; and an adjustment cap moveablydisposed in said bore, wherein said adjustment cap is formed to includea plurality of key slots formed therein; wherein: said first end of saidpressure regulator spring is in physical contact with said annular lip;and said second end of said pressure regulator spring is in physicalcontact with said adjustment cap wherein: rotating said adjustment capin a first direction causes said adjustment cap to compress saidpressure regulator spring; rotating said adjustment cap in a second andopposite direction causes said adjustment cap to decompress saidpressure regulator spring; rotating said adjustment cap in said firstdirection increases the output pressure of the pressure regulator;rotating said adjustment cap in said second direction decreases theoutput pressure of the pressure regulator; said bore is defined by acylindrical wall; said cylindrical wall is formed to include a firstthreading therein; said adjustment cap is formed to include a secondthreading formed on a periphery thereof; and said second threading isconfigured to mesh with said first threading.
 22. The assembly of claim18, further comprising a ventilator connectable to the airway of aliving patient, the ventilator comprising: a venturi, comprising athroat; a venturi nozzle; a venturi opening in the venturi nozzlethrough which pressure-controlled oxygen flows outward, wherein saidventuri opening opens to said throat, and wherein said venturi openingand said throat are substantially longitudinally aligned; an ambient airaperture in fluid communication with said venturi nozzle and withambient air; a fluid port in fluid communication with the airway of thepatient; a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication with saidfluid port, wherein said pressure force multiplier includes at least oneopening defined therethrough; said pressure force multiplier comprisingat least one flap movable between an open position and a closed positionrelative to said at least one opening; and a valve moveable along anaxis of movement relative to said venturi opening in said venturi nozzlebetween a start flow position that causes entrainment of the ambient airby the flow of pressure-controlled oxygen within said throat, and a stopflow position that ceases entrainment of the ambient air by the flow ofpressure-controlled oxygen within said throat; wherein said pressureforce multiplier is configured wherein exhalation of the patient intosaid fluid port actuates said valve along said axis of movement relativeto said venturi nozzle to close said venturi nozzle; wherein saidpressure force multiplier is configured wherein inhalation of thepatient through said fluid port actuates said valve along said axis ofmovement relative to said venturi nozzle; and wherein said axis ofmovement of said valve is substantially longitudinally aligned with alongitudinal direction of said throat.
 23. The assembly of claim 18,further comprising an apparatus suitable for use with a respirator,comprising: a venturi, comprising: a throat, a venturi nozzle, and; aventuri opening in the venturi nozzle through which pressure-controlledfluid flows outward, wherein said venturi opening opens to said throat,and wherein said venturi opening and said throat are substantiallylongitudinally aligned; an ambient fluid aperture in fluid communicationwith said venturi nozzle and with an ambient fluid; a fluid port; apressure force multiplier in fluid communication with said fluid port;and a valve moveable along an axis of movement relative to said venturiopening in said venturi nozzle between a start flow position that causesentrainment of the ambient fluid by the flow of pressure-controlledfluid within said throat, and a stop flow position that ceasesentrainment of the ambient fluid by the flow of pressure-controlledfluid within said throat; wherein said pressure force multiplier isconfigured such that fluid forced into said fluid port actuates saidvalve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi nozzle toclose said venturi nozzle; wherein said pressure force multiplier isconfigured such that fluid withdrawn from said fluid port actuates saidvalve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi nozzle;wherein said axis of movement of said valve is substantiallylongitudinally aligned with a longitudinal direction of said throat; andwherein said pressure force multiplier is positioned between saidventuri nozzle and said fluid port.
 24. The assembly of claim 22,further comprising an oxygen-filled reservoir.
 25. The assembly of claim24, wherein the oxygen-filled reservoir is connected to the ventilator.26. The assembly of claim 22, wherein the ventilator comprises a one-wayexhaust valve and a one-way reservoir valve, and wherein the one-wayreservoir valve fluidly connects the oxygen-filled reservoir to theventilator.
 27. The assembly of claim 17, wherein the attachment devicemechanism and the connector mechanism are interconnected for selectivelystarting and stopping the flow of fluid from the fluid source to theattachment device.
 28. A method of switching one fluid source withanother fluid source and maintaining continuous fluid flow to arespirator or ventilator, comprising the steps of: providing arespirator or ventilator; providing one fluid source; attaching said onefluid source to one connector, said one connecter comprising one housingand one connector mechanism for selectively starting and stopping theflow of fluid; providing an attachment device comprising a body having afluid outlet port and at least two fluid inlet ports; wherein each fluidinlet port is connectable to a respective fluid source; wherein eachfluid inlet port is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet port;and wherein each fluid inlet port comprises an attachment devicemechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow of fluid;providing a pressure regulator for regulating fluid pressure and fluidflow speed; connecting the fluid outlet port of the attachment device tothe pressure regulator; connecting the pressure regulator to therespirator or ventilator; connecting said one connector to one fluidinlet port of the attachment device; selectively starting flow of fluidfrom said one fluid source to the respirator or ventilator using saidone connector mechanism and one attachment device mechanism; providinganother fluid source; attaching said another fluid source to anotherconnector, said another connecter comprising another housing and anotherconnector mechanism for selectively starting and stopping the flow offluid; connecting said another connector to another fluid inlet port ofthe attachment device; selectively starting flow of fluid from saidanother fluid source to the respirator or ventilator using said anotherconnector mechanism and another attachment device mechanism; selectivelystopping flow of fluid from said one fluid source to the respirator orventilator using said one connector mechanism and said one attachmentdevice mechanism; and disconnecting said one connector from said onefluid inlet port of the attachment device.
 29. The method of claim 28,wherein the step of providing a pressure regulator for regulating fluidpressure and fluid flow speed comprises providing a pressure regulatorthat comprises: a housing formed to include a bore therein; a pistonmoveably disposed within said bore, wherein said piston comprises anannular lip adjacent a first end thereof; a pressure regulator springdisposed within said bore, and comprising a first end and a second end;and an adjustment cap moveably disposed in said bore, wherein saidadjustment cap is formed to include a plurality of key slots formedtherein; wherein: said first end of said pressure regulator spring is inphysical contact with said annular lip; and said second end of saidpressure regulator spring is in physical contact with said adjustmentcap wherein: rotating said adjustment cap in a first direction causessaid adjustment cap to compress said pressure regulator spring; rotatingsaid adjustment cap in a second and opposite direction causes saidadjustment cap to decompress said pressure regulator spring; rotatingsaid adjustment cap in said first direction increases the outputpressure of the pressure regulator; rotating said adjustment cap in saidsecond direction decreases the output pressure of the pressureregulator; said bore is defined by a cylindrical wall; said cylindricalwall is formed to include a first threading therein; said adjustment capis formed to include a second threading formed on a periphery thereof;and said second threading is configured to mesh with said firstthreading.
 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the step of providing aventilator comprises providing a ventilator that is connectable to theairway of a living patient, the ventilator comprising: a venturi,comprising a throat; a venturi nozzle; a venturi opening in the venturinozzle through which pressure-controlled oxygen flows outward, whereinsaid venturi opening opens to said throat, and wherein said venturiopening and said throat are substantially longitudinally aligned; anambient air aperture in fluid communication with said venturi nozzle andwith ambient air; a fluid port in fluid communication with the airway ofthe patient; a pressure force multiplier in fluid communication withsaid fluid port, wherein said pressure force multiplier includes atleast one opening defined therethrough; said pressure force multipliercomprising at least one flap movable between an open position and aclosed position relative to said at least one opening; and a valvemoveable along an axis of movement relative to said venturi opening insaid venturi nozzle between a start flow position that causesentrainment of the ambient air by the flow of pressure-controlled oxygenwithin said throat, and a stop flow position that ceases entrainment ofthe ambient air by the flow of pressure-controlled oxygen within saidthroat; wherein said pressure force multiplier is configured whereinexhalation of the patient into said fluid port actuates said valve alongsaid axis of movement relative to said venturi nozzle to close saidventuri nozzle; wherein said pressure force multiplier is configuredwherein inhalation of the patient through said fluid port actuates saidvalve along said axis of movement relative to said venturi nozzle; andwherein said axis of movement of said valve is substantiallylongitudinally aligned with a longitudinal direction of said throat.